Hansi Flick’s Barcelona will face Girona in a Catalan derby on Sunday, aiming to secure their fifth consecutive victory in the La Liga season.
Last season, Barcelona was defeated twice by Girona, who secured a 4-2 victory both home and away. Girona, in their fourth La Liga season, ultimately finished third, while Barcelona placed second. Girona’s victories over Barcelona contributed to their qualification for the Champions League and allowed Real Madrid to clinch their 36th league title.
Since then, significant changes have occurred, including the arrival of Flick as Barcelona’s coach, replacing Xavi Hernandez. Under Flick, Barcelona has won all four of their opening matches and remains the only team in La Liga with a 100 percent record.
Girona, however, has seen the departure of key players like Artem Dovbyk and Savinho. Coach Michel Sanchez is working to integrate new signings, including Arnaut Danjuma, Bryan Gil, Abel Ruiz, and Donny van de Beek. Oriol Romeu, on loan from Barcelona, is ineligible to play against his parent club due to a clause in his loan agreement. Yangel Herrera is also a doubt for the match.
Barcelona faces its own injury concerns but expects to have Dani Olmo available despite an injury sustained while playing for Spain. The team’s morale is high following a 7-0 win over Valladolid before the international break, and Gavi’s partial return to training has been a positive development.
Barca midfielder Pedri commented on the team’s improved performance, saying, “We work much harder than before. The team doesn’t dip after the 70th or 80th minute; it maintains the same fitness levels.”
Real Madrid, who signed Kylian Mbappe this summer, will travel to San Sebastian on Saturday to face Real Sociedad, having drawn their first two matches.
**Player to Watch: Julian Alvarez**
Atletico Madrid’s new signing from Manchester City, Julian Alvarez, has yet to score. He will be aiming to open his account against bottom-of-the-table Valencia, who have lost three of their first four La Liga matches.
**Key Stats:**
1. Barcelona remains the only team in La Liga with a 100 percent record.
2. Atletico Madrid has kept three consecutive clean sheets.
3. Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid has taken the most shots in the league.
