Kylian Mbappe, a Real Madrid striker, hopes to improve his La Liga scoring record after netting two goals from 25 shots. Following a brace against Real Betis before the international break, Mbappe and his team are set to challenge Real Sociedad in San Sebastian this Saturday. Despite drawing two initial four matches, Real Madrid strives to hit their stride this season.
Concurrently, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, unbeaten with four wins in La Liga, faces Girona in a Catalan derby this Sunday. Last season, Girona, a comparatively smaller club, defeated the Catalan giants twice, home and away, with a 4-2 scoreline.
Girona, now in their fourth La Liga season, had finished third last year, behind Barcelona and ahead of champion Real Madrid for much of the season. Despite a strong start, their title challenge faded, but their victories secured them a spot in the Champions League and contributed to Madrid clinching their 36th league title.
With Flick replacing Xavi as coach, Barcelona has seen a revival. The team boasts talents like teenager Lamine Yamal, newcomer Dani Olmo, and veteran Robert Lewandowski and maintains a perfect record this season. In contrast, Girona has seen significant player turnover, losing key players like Artem Dovbyk and Savinho, with coach Michel Sanchez working to integrate new signings effectively.
Recent results indicate Girona’s resilience. The team bounced back from a 3-0 defeat to Atletico with consecutive victories over Osasuna and Sevilla. Girona’s sporting director, Quique Carcel, expressed satisfaction with the offseason changes, emphasizing strategic signings that align with the team’s style.
Girona’s notable additions are Arnaut Danjuma, Bryan Gil, Abel Ruiz, and Donny van der Beek. They also secured Oriol Romeu on loan from Barcelona, who, due to a clause in his contract, will not play in the upcoming match against his parent club.
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Despite several injuries, Barcelona anticipates Dani Olmo’s participation against Girona, bolstered by a robust start to the season and a recent 7-0 thrashing of Valladolid. The team’s morale is high, with midfielder Pedri noting improved endurance in late-game performance.
This season’s rematch with Girona offers Barcelona a chance to rectify last season’s defeats and assert their championship credentials, especially in light of Real Madrid’s strengthened squad with Mbappe’s signing.
