Two key Barcelona stars at suspension risk heading into derby vs RCD Espanyol | OneFootball

FC Barcelona face a crucial fixture this evening as they take on RCD Espanyol in the Catalan derby at the Spotify Camp Nou, with the chance to take a nearly decisive step toward winning La Liga.

Indeed, with Real Madrid dropping points on Friday night against Girona (1-1), a victory for Barça would extend their lead at the top to nine points with only seven matches left in the season.

However, heading into the business end of the campaign, it becomes important for Hansi Flick to have all players available for selection to ensure quality depth.

As such, there is also concern about players who are at risk of suspension for the next La Liga match against Celta Vigo.

Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde one yellow away from suspension

Indeed, heading into today’s league encounter against Espanyol, two Barcelona stars – Jules Kounde and Frenkie de Jong – are facing the threat of suspension for the next game.

Both Kounde and De Jong go into today’s game with four yellow cards each. If they receive one more in the derby, they will be suspended for the next matchday, where Barça face a tricky opponent in Celta Vigo.

This situation forces Flick & co. to carefully manage both minutes and risks during a demanding stretch of the season.

De Jong will return today but is at risk of suspension. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

De Jong’s case is especially important because he is just returning after more than a month out with a muscle injury.

The Dutch midfielder is back feeling good and is expected to get minutes today to rebuild match fitness ahead of the crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

Kounde, meanwhile, returned to the starting lineup in this week’s Champions League match against Atletico. He is a key figure in Barça’s defence, and his potential absence against Celta would be a significant setback for Flick at this stage of the season.

Raphinha and Marc Bernal are in the same situation with four yellow cards each, but neither will be available for this match due to injury.

The Brazilian winger is still recovering from a hamstring issue in his right leg, while the young midfielder is dealing with a left ankle sprain sustained last weekend.