Preview: Girona vs. Barcelona - prediction, team news, lineupsThe upcoming Catalan derby between Girona and Barcelona promises to be a captivating encounter, as both teams head into the match with strong aspirations. Barcelona, leading the La Liga table, will aim to extend their perfect start to the season, while Girona—currently fifth—will be hoping to cause an upset ahead of their UEFA Champions League debut against Paris Saint-Germain.

Match Preview

Girona, under the management of Michel, have had a mixed start to the season. After a slow beginning, which included a 1-1 draw with Real Betis and a 3-0 loss to Atletico Madrid, the team has since found form, claiming a commanding 4-0 victory over Osasuna and a 2-0 win over Sevilla. With momentum now on their side, Girona will look to make it three consecutive victories, but they face a daunting challenge against an in-form Barcelona.

Barcelona, now led by Hansi Flick after Xavi’s departure, have been impressive so far. They started the season with consecutive 2-1 victories over Valencia, Athletic Bilbao, and Rayo Vallecano, before demolishing Real Valladolid 7-0. Flick’s side sits comfortably at the top of the standings with a four-point cushion. However, the Blaugrana will be wary of Girona, as their last league defeat came against them in May at Montilivi. Despite this, Barcelona had previously won their first three away games at Girona without conceding, including a 1-0 win in January 2023.

Team News

Girona will be without Ricard Artero and Jastin, who are sidelined with injuries. Additionally, Oriel Romeu is ineligible to play against his parent club. Yangel Herrera, who missed international duty due to an adductor issue, is expected to return for this match. Arnaut Danjuma, who made his debut against Sevilla, may also feature in the starting lineup for the first time.

Barcelona, on the other hand, will be without several key players. Gavi, despite returning to training, is still unavailable due to his recovery from a serious knee injury. Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong, and Marc Bernal are all also sidelined, while Fermin Lopez is out with a hamstring injury. Ansu Fati is nearing a return but is not expected to feature in this game.

Predicted Lineups

Girona possible starting lineup:

Gazzaniga; Frances, Lopez, Blind, Gutierrez; Tsygankov, Herrera, Martin, Gil; Ruiz, Danjuma

Barcelona possible starting lineup:

Ter Stegen; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski

Prediction: Girona 1-2 Barcelona

While Girona will draw inspiration from their recent victory over Barcelona, the visitors have the quality to edge this encounter. Barcelona’s attacking firepower, led by Robert Lewandowski and supported by Raphinha and Olmo, should be enough to secure a narrow win. Girona will put up a fight, but expect Barcelona to come out on top in a competitive affair.

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Wisdom Boakye

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