Xavi set to start a ‘very offensive’ lineup to face Espanyol, three winter signings included

Barcelona are set to take on Espanyol in the famed Catalan derby on Sunday. The Blaugranas are coming from a scintillating win over Atletico Madrid and can finish the matchday in third place on the standings if they beat Espanyol.

According to SPORT’s cover, Xavi is set to deploy an extremely attack-centric front three on the night. The offensive trio will consist of the three new signings Adama Traore, Ferran Torres, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Traore started the game against Los Rojiblancos and delivered a power-packed display. The Spaniard demolished the opposition left-flank with his dribbles, physicality, and positional awareness. It comes as no surprise that he earned a second successive start under Xavi.

Ferran Torres did not get a goal contribution to his name in the last game but was influential in the buildup for multiple goals against Simeone’s side. The former Manchester City player has been a valuable asset for the coach and will start on the left-wing.

Aubameyang made his debut in the same game as Traore but as a second-half substitute. However, the red card soon after his arrival forced Barcelona into a defensive shell. Unsurprisingly, the Gabonese striker could not show his finishing prowess on the night.

With a front three of such caliber, Xavi will hope for a resounding win at the RCDE stadium. Yet, it remains to be seen if the Spanish tactician sticks with a 4-3-3 or decides to shuffle things up.

Given Dani Alves’ suspension, it is widely expected that Xavi could deploy a 3-5-2 formation on the night.