Barça eye top spot return in Montilivi showdown with struggling Girona
Barcelona look to reclaim LaLiga leadership with Raphinha back in the squad, while relegation-threatened Girona desperate for points in Monday night clash.
Barcelona head to Montilivi on Monday night with a golden chance to reclaim the LaLiga summit after Real Madrid temporarily pinched top spot on Saturday.
Critical clash for both sides
This Catalan derby comes at a pivotal moment for both clubs. Barça can’t afford any slip-ups if they want to leapfrog their eternal rivals Madrid, while Girona are desperately trying to put daylight between themselves and the relegation zone.
Hansi Flick’s men will be boosted by the return of Brazilian winger Raphinha, who’s been proper missed during his injury absence. The Barcelona attack has sometimes looked a bit “Pete Tong” without his creativity and direct running.
However, it’s not all rosy for the German gaffer, who’ll have to make do without several key players:
- Marcus Rashford misses out after picking up a knock against Mallorca
- Long-term absentees Gavi, Christensen and Pedri remain unavailable
Likely lineups
Girona boss Míchel has his own injury concerns, with Ter Stegen, Álex Moreno, Van de Beek and Ounahi all sidelined.
Girona probable XI: Gazzaniga; Hugo Rincón, Vitor Reis, Blind, Arnau; Fran Beltrán, Iván Martín; Tsygankov, Lemar, Bryan Gil; Vanat
Barcelona probable XI: Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Araujo, Balde; Eric García, De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Olmo, Ferran; Lewandowski
What to expect
With Raphinha back in contention, Barcelona’s attack should have more cutting edge than in recent games. Young sensation Lamine Yamal will likely continue his impressive form, while Lewandowski will be hungry to add to his goal tally.
Girona’s home advantage could play a factor, but their defensive frailties might be exploited by Barça’s formidable forward line. Expect an intense, high-stakes Catalan derby with both teams desperate for the three points.