With Frenkie de Jong finally back in the squad but not quite ready for 90 minutes, and Pedri in desperate need of a breather to ensure he’s fresh for the trip to the Metropolitano, the midfield takes on a very experimental look. Combined with Marc Casadó featuring in just four of the last eleven matches, Flick is forced to lean on his squad depth to maintain the high-intensity rhythm that has defined his tenure so far.
Here is our predicted XI for the derby against Espanyol.
GK: Joan García
The undisputed number one is expected to retain his place against Espanyol. Fresh off after a disappointing match against Atlético, the former Espanyol man will be eager to prove his point with a dominant display.
RB: Jules Koundé
Koundé remains the more reliable piece of Flick’s defensive setup. While he has seen some rotation recently with Araújo being preferred in specific matches, his ability to lock down the right flank and provide a late attacking overlap makes him indispensable for a game where emotions will run high. We don’t expect Koundé to play the full 90 minutes, as Araújo would likely share minutes with him ahead of the Atlético clash.
CB: Pau Cubarsí
The teenager is out of the Atlético clash as he was sent off in the 1st leg. He will be available for the La Liga match against Espanyol and we expect him to play the full 90 minutes. Cubarsí has a point to prove after his disastrous performance in the crucial Champions League match.
CB: Gerard Martín
Martín has quietly made the transition into a central role look effortless. His defensive displays have marked a significant improvement over his performances from last season, and his composure will be vital in dealing with the threats the visitors usually pose in the derby.
LB: Alejandro Balde
Balde is back to fitness after his injury and we can expect him to get the nod ahead of Cancelo, who is certain to be rested for the upcoming clash against Atlético. His pace on the left allows the winger to drift inside, effectively becoming an extra playmaker in the final third, something Barca will need with the heavy rotations.
CM: Eric García
In the absence of Marc Bernal and with Frenkie still being eased back, Eric is the tactical anchor. Tasked with sitting deep to shield the backline, he allows the more creative engines ahead of him the freedom to dictate the tempo without worrying about the counter-attack.
CM: Gavi
Gavi is completely back his long injury, after there is no player more suited for a derby than Gavi. His intensity and "bite" in the challenge are exactly what this rotated midfield needs. While he’ll be tasked with the dirty work, his underrated ability to carry the ball forward will be key in transitioning from defense to attack.
CAM: Fermín López
Fermín’s energy is the perfect counter-weight to a game that might get scrappy. Fermin’s ability to crash the box and provide a goal threat from midfield gives Flick a tactical edge that is hard to ignore in high-pressure matches. We expect both Fermín and Dani Olmo to share minutes against Espanyol.
RW: Lamine Yamal
Simply put, he is the best player on the pitch right now. Coming off a superb weekend performance, Yamal will want to keep that momentum going. Reports suggest possible early 2nd half substitution with Roony Bardghji, but we expect Yamal to get the start.
LW: Ferran Torres
With the left-wing spot often rotating, this is a big opportunity for Ferran. Against Espanyol, he’ll need to prove he can provide the clinical edge that Los Culés expect in the final third.
ST: Robert Lewandowski
Lewandowski remains the focal point; he doesn't need many chances to change a game, and having him lead the line ensures that the Espanyol center-backs can never truly relax. We expect him to start the match, with Marcus Rashford likely coming on for him in the 2nd half.
Possible substitutions
Frenkie de Jong: All eyes will be on the bench for Frenkie’s return. After a frustrating spell on the sidelines, he isn’t ready for a full shift yet, but Flick will almost certainly give him 20–30 minutes at the end. The goal here is simple: shake off the rust and find some rhythm before he is asked to go to war against Atlético’s midfield next week.
Marc Casadó: It’s been a strange few weeks for Casadó, having featured in only four of the last eleven matches. Despite the dip in minutes, he remains Flick’s most reliable "tactical fire extinguisher." If Barcelona is leading and needs to kill the game’s tempo, expect Casadó to come on and provide that calm, disciplined positioning that allowed Eric García to move forward or rest.
Roony Bardghji: The new number 19 has already shown he has the "Barca DNA" since his move from Copenhagen. Roony’s game time has been limited as of late and against Espanyol, his unpredictability and goal-scoring instinct make him the perfect wildcard. He’s already opened his account for the club, and a derby goal would be the perfect way to cement his place in the fans' hearts.
Xavi Espart: The latest gem to emerge from the La Masia conveyor belt, Espart didn't look out of place when he was thrown into the deep end against Newcastle. If the result is comfortable, Flick might use the final minutes to give the young defender more top-flight experience, likely coming on for either Martin or Koundé to keep the legs fresh.
The Final Word
This derby isn't just about three points; it’s about momentum. If Flick can navigate the rotation of Pedri and Yamal, and the return of Frenkie while still coming away with a victory, it sets the perfect tone for the Champions League battle ahead.