Barcelona head to Espanyol for their first La Liga game of 2026 in what promises to be a big game for many reasons.
Hansi Flick’s side head into the game on top of the pile in La Liga, but Espanyol have been enjoying a fine season too and currently sit in fifth place in the table.
There’s also the small matter of Joan Garcia returning to his old team for the first time since signing for Barcelona, with home fans now being urged to keep calm.
A supporters’ group has posted a letter ahead of the match,
explaining why it would be a good idea for fans not to let their occasion get the better of them when the two teams meet on Saturday at the RCDE Stadium.
The main part reads:
“January 3rd is a very special match that all Pericos and Pericas always mark in red on the calendar. In addition, this year’s derby has the added bonus of being his first match at the RCDE Stadium.
“We are aware of the feelings surrounding his return, but it is essential to keep a cool head, as far as possible. There are many external factors watching us closely and eager to attack us. Furthermore, we cannot forget that the stadium is under threat of closure, so we must be aware of what is at stake.
“The first team this season is making us enjoy ourselves like few times before and, as the players themselves admit, it is partly thanks to the support they have when they play at home. For this reason, I ask all supporters to please behave responsibly for the full 90 minutes in a way that doesn’t jeopardize the rest of the season and to cheer the team on relentlessly.”
Espanyol are reportedly installing safety nets behind both goals to prevent any objects thrown from the stands from reaching the pitch. The club have previous been sanctioned for ugly incidents at the RCDE Stadium and fear a repeat could result in severe punishment.
