Girona v Barcelona showdown starting lineups: Catalan derby in La Liga

Hansi Flick's Barcelona face Girona on Sunday in a Catalan derby aiming to secure a fifth win from five La Liga matches at the start of the season. Last season the Catalan giants were upset twice by their upstart minnow neighbours, who thumped Xavi Hernandez's side 4-2 home and away in the top flight. 

Girona, in their fourth-ever season in La Liga, ultimately finished third, behind second-place Barcelona, but for much of the season, the Blaugrana could only watch as the tiny club battled Real Madrid for the top spot. But a lot has changed since then, with Flick's arrival in place of Xavi seeming to revitalise Barcelona's squad.

Led by teenage star Lamine Yamal, new arrival Dani Olmo and veteran striker Robert Lewandowski they have won their opening four matches and are the only team in La Liga with a 100 percent record.

Girona, on the other hand, have lost star names including Artem Dovbyk and Savinho and coach Michel Sanchez is still fitting together his replacement puzzle pieces.

Starting lineups

Girona starting XI: Gazzaniga (GK); Frances, Lopez, Blind, Gutierrez; Tsygankov, Solis, Martin, Gil; Ruiz, Danjuma.

Barcelona starting XI: Ter Stegen (GK); Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde; Casado, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski.

 

September 15, 2024

 

September 15, 2024