Espanyol vs Barcelona Team News – Only a Win To Settle La Liga Title for Blaugrana

Key Injuries, Predicted Lineups & Match Preview for the Crucial La Liga Clash on May 15.

Espanyol vs Barcelona: La Blaugrana are on the cusp of La Liga glory as they gear up for a high-stake Catalan derby on Thursday. They will face city rivals Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium determined to get away with a win. After their thrilling 4-3 El Clasico win over Real Madrid, the Blaugrana can mathematically seal the title today itself.

It could’ve happened sooner if Los Blancos dropped points against Mallorca the previous day. However, last minute heroics saw them win. Hence, only a win against Espanyol would confirm their status as champions. With form and momentum in their favour, Barca will look to carry their confidence into this decisive fixture.

𝐓𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐥’𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐭. pic.twitter.com/zsLuGhoZka
— RCD Espanyol de Barcelona (@RCDEspanyol) May 15, 2025

The Match to Win the League Title

Having already clinched the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup, Barcelona are eyeing a domestic treble in Hansi Flick’s debut season. They’re currently sitting four points clear at the top after Real Madrid’s win yesterday, courtesy of a dying minute goal from Jacobo Ramon. However, with only two matches left after the Espanyol clash, they can mathematically wrap up their 28th league title with a win today.

Whether a win or a defeat for Real Madrid will not make any difference then. Barca’s form has been formidable, winning 14 of their last 15 league outings including each of their past five away matches. The Blaugrana are also on a 27-match unbeaten run against Espanyol in La Liga. Thus, making them clear favourites heading into Thursday’s clash.

Also Read: Pichichi Trophy Race Heats Up: Kylian Mbappe vs Robert Lewandowski – Who Has Better Chances of Winning?

Espanyol Team News

Espanyol enter the derby looking to bounce back from a 3-2 defeat to Leganes. They will be without Brian Olivan, who remains sidelined with a calf injury. On the brighter side, Pol Lozano, previously out with a quad issue, has returned to training and could feature against Barcelona.

Right-back Omar El Hilali is also available for selection again after serving a one-match suspension. Javi Puado will be the main attacking threat for them. He has registered 11 goals and three assists across 32 league appearances in what has been a solid individual season.

Espanyol Probable Starting Lineup:

Garcia; Romero, Cabrera, Kumbulla, El Hilali; Lozano, Gonzalez, Exposito; Roberto, Puado, Jofre

Also read: Empty Seats at the Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs Mallorca: Santiago Bernabeu Not Sold Out for the First Time All Season After El Clasico Defeat

Barcelona Team News

Barcelona will travel without long-term absentee Marc Bernal, who continues his recovery from a knee injury. Pablo Torre and Jules Kounde anremain doubtful due to hamstring and knee issues respectively. Meanwhile Inigo Martinez is suspended for yellow card accumulation.

This could open up a starting spot for Andreas Christensen, who impressed in El Clasico as he came on as a substitute. Alejandro Balde is pushing for a place in the starting XI as well after coming off the bench last time out. Meanwhile Robert Lewandowski could be come on as the La Liga Pichichi race hests up.

Barcelona Probable Starting Lineup:

Szczesny; Balde, Cubarsi, Christensen, Garcia; De Jong, Pedri; Raphinha, Olmo, Yamal; Lewandowski

Barcelona

Espanyol

Espanyol vs Barcelona

La Liga

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.