El Clásico is the fixture most fans look for when the schedule is released, with the Catalan derby close behind for supporters in Barcelona.
Barcelona will aim to start 2026 with a win when they face Espanyol at Cornellà. A victory would temporarily open a seven-point lead at the top of the table and extend their league run to nine consecutive wins.
Espanyol, however, enter the match in good form, having won their last five La Liga games and moved into fifth place before the Christmas break.
With Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo confirmed fit after recent injury concerns, attention now turns to how Barcelona could line up against Espanyol.
GK: Joan García
Going back to his boyhood club for the first time since his move to their city rivals. Likely to get hostile reaction but prove his quality and worth yet again.
RB: Jules Koundé
Confirmed fully fit and a return to form indicates he is the man to hold down the right back role ahead of Eric Garcia.
CB: Pau Cubarsí
Playing in the right side centre back position makes him look more comfortable. Will look to kick on for the second half of season to prove his quality.
CB: Gerard Martín
The natural left back has emerged over the past two months as a more than serviceable alternative in the centre back role. The balance seems right with this pairing, despite Garcia and Ronald Araujo waiting in the wings.
LB: Alejandro Balde
The best in the business. Partnership with Raphinha looks increasingly important to this team.
DM: Eric García
Arguably the best performer this season, has adapted a new role in the defensive midfield shielding the defence now.
CM: Pedri
Shook off the injury that kept him out of the Villarreal fixture and he will start alongside Eric Garcia. When fit, he starts as arguably the most technically gifted player in the squad.
AM: Fermín López
Needs to find that form that kept him untouchable before his injury. Will want to keep that attacking role as Dani Olmo returns from injury and Gavi reportedly close to resuming training this month.
RW: Lamine Yamal
The star man in the last fixture against the city neighbours, will be hoping to come through unscathed against a physical team, particularly after his injury scare earlier this week. Resumed training later this week to start.
ST: Robert Lewandowski
His height and superior physicality will be the difference against the opposition. Ferran Torres can be the super sub if the score reaches a stalemate come the second half.
LW: Raphinha
The team has improved massively since his return. The Brazilian will be hoping for a period of staying fit to be a key cog in Barcelona’s trophy hunt again this season.