Barcelona weigh squad rotation for Espanyol derby after Atletico loss
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is facing a tough decision ahead of the La Liga derby against Espanyol. After a Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, Flick must decide whether to rest key players or push for a derby win. The team is currently leading the league, but upcoming fixtures could impact their title hopes. Several reserve players may get a chance as Barca balance domestic and European ambitions.
Match highlights
- Hansi Flick is considering rotating his squad for the Espanyol derby following a Champions League loss to Atletico Madrid.
- Barca are seven points ahead of Real Madrid, but could see their lead cut if Madrid win their next match.
- Key players like Pedri Gonzalez and Frenkie de Jong are dealing with fitness issues, with De Jong recently returning to training.
- Reserve players such as Ronald Araujo, Marc Casado, and Roony Bardghji may feature against Espanyol, who have not won in 2026.
- The upcoming league Clasico against Real Madrid is on the horizon, but the Champions League remains a priority for Barca.
