Pedri and Dani Olmo back in Barcelona squad for Espanyol derby
Barcelona receive double fitness boost as Pedri and Dani Olmo return to the squad for the Catalan derby against Espanyol, with Lamine Yamal also available.
Barcelona have been handed a significant boost with the return of midfield maestros Pedri and Dani Olmo to the squad for Sunday’s Catalan derby against Espanyol.
Injury boosts for Flick
Hansi Flick’s side will make the short trip to the RCDE Stadium with reinforcements in tow as they kick off 2026 in a fiery local derby. The German gaffer had already let the cat out of the bag in his pre-match presser that both players would be available.
Pedri has shaken off the calf muscle discomfort that kept him sidelined for Barça’s final match of 2025 against Villarreal. The Canary Islander’s return provides a welcome creative option in midfield where his ball retention and passing range have been sorely missed.
Meanwhile, Dani Olmo has completed his recovery from a shoulder dislocation suffered a month ago. The Spanish international’s return adds another dimension to Barcelona’s attacking options as they look to maintain momentum in La Liga.
Yamal fit, Araujo progressing
There was a minor scare when wonderkid Lamine Yamal missed training on January 1st due to general illness, but the teenager was back in action during Friday’s session and has been included in the squad.
Ronald Araujo continues his gradual return to action after taking time away for mental health reasons. The Uruguayan defender has resumed training with the group but isn’t yet at full physical capacity after missing numerous sessions in December.
Flick remains without the injured Gavi and Andreas Christensen for the derby clash.
Full Barcelona squad
Goalkeepers: Ter Stegen, Joan García, Szczesny
Defenders: Balde, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Koundé, Eric García, Jofre
Midfielders: Fermín, Pedri, Marc Casadó, Frenkie de Jong, Bernal, Dani Olmo, Tommy, Dro
Forwards: Ferran, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Rashford, Roony
Barça will be hoping their returning stars can make the difference in what’s sure to be a proper Bobby Moore of a derby atmosphere at Espanyol’s gaff.