FC Barcelona head coach Hans-Dieter “Hansi” Flick, struck a calm but cautious tone ahead of Saturday’s La Liga derby clash against RCD Espanyol, acknowledging the threat posed by their city rivals while confirming positive fitness news within his squad.
The Derbi Barceloní will be played at the RCDE Stadium on January 3, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT).
Barcelona go into the Matchday 18 encounter top of the 2025–26 La Liga table, while Espanyol sit an impressive fifth, buoyed by a strong run of form.
Flick praised Espanyol gaffer José Manuel “Manolo” González Álvarez for his impressive work with Los Periquitos this season.
“I want to congratulate Manolo because it’s incredible how Espanyol are playing. Five consecutive wins in La Liga. They’re aggressive, they press well, they know how to transition, we’ll have to be careful and perform at our maximum.”
Addressing the intense atmosphere that typically surrounds the derby, Flick insisted his players are mentally prepared despite the hostile setting in Cornellà-El Prat.
“It’s normal for the atmosphere to be heated. Last year it wasn’t easy to play there either. I don’t see any difference in Joan Garcia this past week. He’s calm, he has confidence in himself and tomorrow he’ll want to show it.”
The Barcelona coach also confirmed a timely boost for his side, revealing that Dani Olmo and teenage star Lamine Yamal are both fit and available after participating fully in training.
“Dani Olmo played in today’s small-sided games and will be available for tomorrow. Lamine Yamal as well, no problems,” Flick stated.
Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Flick hinted at the possibility of defensive reinforcements, suggesting the squad may need added depth at the back.
“When I look at the defensive line, I think we need one more player there. We’ll have to wait and see. It has to be something that makes sense.”
Flick also spoke on the absence of Ronald Araújo, stressing that the defender will return on his own terms and continues to enjoy full support from his teammates.
As one of Spanish football’s fiercest rivalries returns, Barcelona will be aiming to extend their title charge, while Espanyol look to continue their resurgence and further assert themselves among La Liga’s top sides.
