Preview | Espanyol vs FC Barcelona

The Stakes of the Derbi Barcelonés

As the excitement builds for the pivotal encounter between RCD Espanyol and FC Barcelona, all eyes are set on the Stage Front Stadium this Thursday at 9:30 PM CEST. The match not only holds significance in terms of rivalry but could also mark a monumental moment for Barça, as they stand on the brink of mathematically confirming the La Liga title.

Barcelona’s Path to Glory

After an exhilarating comeback last weekend against Real Madrid, where Barça triumphed 4-3 in the Clásico, they find themselves in a favorable position at the top of the league. With a seven-point lead over Real Madrid, a single draw in any of their remaining matches would secure the title for Hansi Flick’s squad. It’s been a stellar season for Barcelona, with an impressive record of unbeaten games throughout 2025.

This game provides a unique opportunity for Barça to clinch the championship at the very venue where they celebrated their triumph two seasons ago, a scene sure to add pressure on Espanyol as they face their fierce rivals.

Espanyol’s Fight for Survival

For Espanyol, the stakes are equally high as they battle to avoid relegation, echoing the troubles faced last season. Having witnessed their rivals celebrate victory on their home ground in a painful defeat (4-2 to Barcelona), they are determined to reverse their fortunes this time around.

Currently, Espanyol is five points clear of the relegation zone, and securing a win could effectively assure their place in La Liga for another season. However, the team is under stress following three consecutive losses to Villarreal, Betis, and Leganés. To achieve their goal, Espanyol must break free from this negative streak, especially as they’ve been performing substantially better at home.

Head-to-Head Dynamics

Historically, the odds are stacked in Barcelona’s favor. They remain unbeaten in the last 27 editions of the Derbi Barcelonés, showcasing a dominant run that includes 15 consecutive matches without a loss at Espanyol’s home turf. Their previous meeting this season ended with a strong victory for Barcelona, spearheaded by goals from Dani Olmo and Raphinha, despite a late response from Espanyol’s Javi Puado.

Espanyol will be looking towards their captain, who has scored 11 goals this season, as well as Roberto Fernández, who has made a notable impact since joining on loan, netting six goals in his tenure.

Team News and Injuries

In terms of team lineups, Barcelona will have to contend with some absentees. Marc Bernal and Jules Koundé are both out due to injury, and two other notable players are missing: Iñigo Martinez, serving a suspension, and Ferran Torres, who has recently been hospitalized due to appendicitis.

On the other side, Espanyol’s Brian Oliván is their only significant absentee, providing them with a relatively healthy squad as they prepare for this crucial fixture.

Managerial Perspectives

In a display of sportsmanship amid this fierce rivalry, Hansi Flick and Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez took part in a friendly photo session ahead of the match. Both teams are feeling the weight of their respective standings, but the mutual respect is evident.

This anticipation surrounding the match will not only be felt in the stands but will also resonate through the illustrious history that defines the Derbi Barcelonés. With titles on the line for Barcelona and survival on the line for Espanyol, this match promises to be an unforgettable chapter in their storied rivalry.

Tags: RCD Espanyol, FC Barcelona, La Liga, Derbi Barcelonés, Hansi Flick, Manolo Gonzalez, football, rivalry, Barça triumphant, relegation battle