“Barcelona takes on Espanyol in a heated derby: Follow the LIVE updates and check out the predicted LINEUPS”

Espanyol and Barcelona are set to clash in the Catalan derby, promising a match filled with intensity and action. While Barcelona has a chance to seal the title with a win, the hosts, Espanyol, find themselves in an unfavorable situation as they have been struggling to stay out of the relegation zone. The recent record of Espanyol has not been impressive as they have lost eight out of their last 10 matches, including their last match against Sevilla. On the other hand, Barcelona has been performing well, winning seven out of their last ten league games.

Home form is usually crucial in a relegation battle, but Espanyol has shown disappointing performance in front of their fans at the RCDE Stadium. They have managed to win just three games out of their last ten matches, which makes it difficult for them to win against Barcelona. Barcelona, known for its attacking approach, is likely to maintain a similar strategy in this derby. The visitors have been in good shape, even though their early exit from Europe.

The Catalan derby against Espanyol could see the legendary midfielder Sergio Busquets, who has announced his departure from Barca at the end of this season, playing his final derby before leaving the club. Over the years, he has become an integral part of Barcelona‘s midfield and a crucial member of the Spanish national team. With his departure, Barcelona will be bidding farewell to a great player.

In terms of team compositions, Espanyol XI is likely to have Pacheco as goalkeeper, with Gil, Montes, Gomez, Cabrera, and Olivan in defense, while Suarez, Darder, and Nico are likely to take charge of midfield. In the attack, Braithwaite and Joselu are predicted to play alongside each other. Barcelona is likely to go with Ter Stegen as their goalkeeper, with Kounde, Araujo, Christensen, and Balde in defense. In the midfield, F de Jong, Sergio Busquets, and Pedri are predicted to form the midfield, while Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Gavi could take up the attack.

Even though Barcelona might slip, the prospect of them winning the title this season seems bright. Their upcoming fixture against Real Sociedad on 21st May would be their next match if they slip up on Sunday. Barcelona would be crowned champions of the 2022-23 campaign if they manage to win against Real Sociedad.

In conclusion, the derby between Espanyol and Barcelona will be one of the most interesting matches of this week. With both teams having a lot to play for, it is going to be an intense and action-packed encounter. While Barcelona is expected to win, Espanyol cannot be underestimated, and it will be interesting to see how the Catalan derby unfolds.