FC Barcelona will be looking to continue their winning run as they brace for another important match against RCD Espanyol in La Liga. Not only will the Blaugranes be in very high spirits, following their wins over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, but Hansi Flick will also have several important players in even better shape after their recent recoveries.
This is particularly the case for the likes of Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, and Dani Olmo, who have been participating in the last few games from the bench.
According to Mundo Deportivo, two of these players, Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo, are now ready to take the next step, and are expected to start the upcoming game against Espanyol.
In addition to helping them get back to their best shape, these changes in the midfield will also allow Hansi Flick to give some rest to other midfielders like Pedri and Marc Casado, who have been playing a lot of minutes this season.
This rest is also important as Barcelona once again have three matches in the next eight days and their UEFA Champions League match against Belgrade Red Star is going to be important because the Catalans will be looking to ensure their participation in the next round of the competition as soon as possible. Fermin Lopez and Gavi can also get on the pitch later in the game.
However, beyond the midfield, there are not expected to be many changes in the starting line-up for the Espanyol game. Thus, Inaki Pena will start in goal, and Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, and Balde will form the team’s backline.
With Eric Garcia out, Flick can field Sergi Dominguez in the center and Gerard Martin as a fullback if the need arises.
Similarly, upfront, Lewandowski will also start and will be supported by his usual colleagues this season, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.