RCD Espanyol and Girona FC are set to conclude LaLiga matchday 27 with a Catalan derby. This match is highly anticipated due to the growing rivalry between the fans in recent years, and both teams have a lot to play for.
Espanyol, currently in good form, will aim to continue their strong home performances and leverage their fans’ support to secure three crucial points. These points would be vital in their fight to move further away from the relegation zone. Manolo González, Espanyol’s coach, intends to maintain consistency, as suggested in his pre-match press conference: “The team is performing well, competing and winning. We won in Vitoria and drew against Athletic. The team is currently confident, strong, and in good shape. We try to make minimal changes unless necessary. It’s not about overthinking tactics; it’s about maximizing performance.” Following this approach, the starting eleven is expected to be the same lineup initially planned for the postponed match against Villarreal. Carlos Romero would remain at left-back, and Jofre Carreras would continue on the right wing, ahead of Brian Oliván and Antoniu Roca. The predicted Espanyol lineup is: Joan García; Omar El Hilali, Marash Kumbulla, Leandro Cabrera, Carlos Romero; Pol Lozano, Urko, Král; Jofre Carreras, Javi Puado, and Roberto Fernández.
Girona Faces Lineup Doubts
Míchel’s Girona comes into this match needing to regain momentum after a four-game winless streak. This recent dip in form has dampened Girona’s enthusiasm and caused them to lose ground in the league table. Adding to their challenges, Abel Ruiz is unavailable, and Oriol Romeu is facing fitness issues, creating further uncertainty in the lineup. Míchel has several positions to consider. The recent underperformance of David López and Oriol Romeu could open opportunities for Arthur Melo and Iván Martín in midfield. In attack, the forward position remains uncertain, with Miovski, Danjuma, and even Stuani vying for a starting spot. The coach must decide whether to prioritize experience or freshness to break their negative streak. A possible Girona lineup could be: Gazzaniga; Arnau, David López, Krejci, Blind; Yangel Herrera, Arthur, Miguel; Tsygankov, Danjuma, and Bryan Gil.