Sunday’s Catalonia derby generated a lot of hype due to the recent war of words between Gerard Pique and Espanyol. As a result, both clubs were expected to bring out their biggest ammunitions with bragging rights at stake and three points.
However, fans were fed with a rare sight of Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi looking on from the dugout as the first 45 minutes commenced. Considering the game was dubbed as a high risk encounter, Ernesto Valverde probably rested his most-priced asset as a precaution.
The little Argentine forward’s position was taken by Paco Alcacer, with new signing Phil Coutinho also entering the fray. Barcelona momentarily sits atop La Liga with 57 points.
XI
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 4, 2018
#EspanyolBarça
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A win at the RCDE Stadium will take them 15 points clear of second-placed Atletico Madrid and 21 points ahead of rivals Real Madrid, who sit in fourth place.