**BREAKING: Barcelona Lineup SHOCK vs Espanyol – 5 Major Changes Confirmed!**
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made five surprising changes to his starting XI ahead of Thursday’s crucial La Liga clash against Espanyol. With the league title within reach, Flick is rotating his squad following the intense 4-3 El Clásico victory.
Key changes include Pau Cubarsí being rested due to a minor injury, with Ronald Araújo stepping in. Andreas Christensen replaces Íñigo Martínez in defense, while Alejandro Balde returns at left-back. In midfield, Fermín López is expected to start in place of the likely rested Dani Olmo.
Up front, Robert Lewandowski retains his spot as he continues his pursuit of the Pichichi trophy. The Polish striker will be crucial in Barcelona’s quest to secure the title with a win.
The predicted lineup features Marc-André ter Stegen in goal, with Jules Koundé, Araújo, Christensen, and Balde forming the backline. Frenkie de Jong and Pedri will anchor the midfield, while Fermín López joins Raphinha and Lamine Yamal in support of Lewandowski.
A victory against Espanyol would officially crown Barcelona as La Liga champions with two games remaining. The Catalan derby now carries even greater significance, as Flick balances squad rotation with the urgency of securing silverware.
Fans will be watching closely to see if Flick’s tactical adjustments pay off. The decision to rotate key players could either be a masterstroke or a gamble, but the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Espanyol, meanwhile, will look to play spoiler in what promises to be a fiercely contested match. Barcelona’s title hopes hinge on their ability to overcome their city rivals in what could be a historic night for the club.
With the title on the line, all eyes will be on Barcelona as they aim to clinch La Liga glory in front of their home supporters. Will Flick’s bold changes deliver the result needed? The answer comes Thursday.