Barcelona aiming to reclaim La Liga top spot in Girona derby

Barcelona return to action on Saturday against Girona at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, desperate to halt a worrying slide that saw them lose back-to-back matches before the international break.

Hansi Flick’s side were beaten 2-1 by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and then thrashed 4-1 by Sevilla in La Liga.

The latter result left them two points behind leaders Real Madrid and in need of a convincing response to steady the mood in Catalonia.

The defeat in Seville exposed defensive frailties and a lack of cohesion up front, problems that Flick attributes to the club’s growing injury list.

Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Joan Garcia are all unavailable, while Ferran Torres has joined them on the sidelines with muscular fatigue.

Flick admitted the situation is testing his options. “I cannot change it,” he said. “We have to find solutions. We might have to rely on players from La Masia. We will see what happens.”

However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have returned to training, though neither is fit enough to complete 90 minutes.

Flick hinted that teenager Toni Fernandez could make his full debut, while Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji are expected to spearhead the attack as Barcelona look to rediscover their rhythm.

Despite the setbacks, Flick was in a defiant mood when addressing reports of tension behind the scenes, firmly denying suggestions that sporting director Deco had interfered with team selection.

“It’s total nonsense,” he added. “They believe in my work, and I decide who plays. I have a very good relationship with everyone at the club.”

The Catalans enter the weekend needing a result not only to restore confidence but also to reclaim top spot, with Real Madrid not in action until Sunday. Flick urged his players to show greater intensity.

“It’s about attitude and mentality,” Flick said. “We are Barca, and our fans want to see us fight for every situation.

“Last season we won three titles, but this is a new season. We have to start again with that same hunger.”

Girona approach the derby buoyed by their first win of the season before the break – a 2-1 victory over Valencia that ended a frustrating start under Michel.

They remain in the relegation zone but are unbeaten in three league matches and will be eager to exploit Barcelona’s weakened line-up.

The fixture is a chance for Barcelona to reassert control, restore belief and show they can still set the tempo in La Liga – even with a patched-up squad.