Prediction: Barcelona vs Espanyol

Prediction: Barcelona win

Best Odds: 4/11

Bookmaker: 888sport

The international break has come to an end and it’s time for domestic football to resume across the continent, including Spain. The La Liga season has been difficult to predict up to this point with underdogs thriving and some of the big names struggling – which is what should make the Derbi Barceloní clash between Barcelona and Espanyol this weekend all the more intriguing.

Barcelona

The rebuilding phase at Barcelona is well and truly underway with Xavi making his way back to the club as their new manager. It’s an unbelievably risky appointment given the stakes involved in trying to turn the club around, but it’s one that Barca are willing to make. In this game, digging deep and making a defensive stand will be equally as important as what they try and do in the final third.

Team News

Barca certainly have some sorting out to do with Aguero, Dembele and Fati all being out through injury. The recently re-signed Dani Alves can’t play until January with Dest being a fitness doubt and Iglesias also being on the shelf.

Espanyol

Espanyol are settling nicely in their first season back in the top flight and coming into this one, we don’t think they’ll be feeling all too much pressure. They’re capable at attacking set pieces, they’ll be happy to cause Barca problems down the flanks, and they aren’t afraid to let rip from anywhere on the pitch. Of course, if they want to accomplish that goal, they need to avoid complacency at the back.

Team News

Gil is close to a full return but will probably just miss out for the short trip across the city. Morlanes has been tipped to make his full debut in the middle of the park with Bare being the only official absentee.

Factors to Consider

• Barcelona are 9th in La Liga whereas Espanyol are sat in 11th.
• Barcelona have won two, drawn two and lost two of their last six games.
• Espanyol have won three, drawn two and lost one of their last six games.
• Barcelona have scored seven goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
• Espanyol have scored 10 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

The intensity of a rivalry like this one can sometimes overshadow the game itself but we’re expecting a really strong outing from both sides. This is going to be a huge opportunity for Espanyol to do some damage to their local rivals, especially when you consider just how many troubles they’ve had. Alas, the star power will shine through at the Nou Camp with Barca edging out a nice 2-1 win.

Prediction: Barcelona win

Best Odds: 4/11

Bookmaker: 888sport