Espanyol vs Barcelona

On Sunday night, Espanyol and Barcelona go head-to-head in a local derby that could be massive for the visitor’s chances of playing Champions League football next season.

Espanyol

RCDE are on a poor run of form in the Spanish top-flight after a solid start to their return to the top-flight. The home team is now winless in four league matches, having picked up just a draw and suffered three defeats on the run.

One of the main causes of the poor recent results has been the Periquitos leaky defence, as they have conceded at least two goals in their last four outings in La Liga. The recent poor form has seen Vicente Moreno’s team drop to 13th position in the standings.

Barcelona

Everything seemed to click into gear for the Catalan giants last time out, as they defeated reigning champions Atletico Madrid 4-2 at the Nou Camp. The victory means that the Blaugrana are unbeaten in their last seven matches in La Liga.

The result also moved Barcelona into the Champions League spots. They are now two points clear of fifth-place Atletico Madrid and two points adrift of third-place Real Betis.

Xavi’s team are seven games unbeaten on their travels in the Spanish top-flight. However, they have won just three of their last 11 La Liga matches away from home. Their recent away matches in La Liga have been low-scoring, with under 2.5 goals scored in their last four games on their travels. The fact that the visitors have conceded just once in their last three away games has been a big factor in those low-scoring games.

Espanyol vs Barcelona Team News

Espanyol have no reported injuries, so should have a fully-fit squad available to head coach Vicente Moreno. Barcelona on the other hand have several players that are unlikely to feature in this clash, including Dani Alves through suspension. Meanwhile, Alex Balde, Memphis Depay, Eric Garcia, Clement Lenglet, Ansu Fati, Sergi Roberto and Samuel Umtiti look set to miss out through injury.