Espanyol vs Barcelona prediction 03.01.2026 | La Liga

The 2025/26 season could be the best for Espanyol in the 21st century. They are in a surprising fifth position in La Liga with solid chances to compete for a place in the Champions League. Los Pericos are in excellent form with three wins in a row. In the most recent outing, Espanyol won 2-1 on the road against Athletic Bilbao. The home side ended the match with 66% ball possession and seven shots on the goal, more than the opponent, but the guests' much better efficiency was enough for all three points. 

Espanyol are playing great this season, but the team is working hard to strengthen themself even further in the January transfer window. According to the Spanish media, they are interested in signing Raul Moro, left winger, who doesn't play regularly for Ajax, and Mika Marmol, Las Palmas' defender. 

Espanyol have some problems with missing players. They will be without Charles Pickel, Javi Puado, and Ramon Terrats on Saturday evening against Barcelona. Also, Pere Milla is questionable and his status will be clearer closer to the kickoff. 

Barcelona are on course to win another La Liga title. After almost half of the season, they are at the top of the standings with four points more than Real Madrid. Barcelona have been excellent lately, with seven victories in a row across all competitions. In the previous game, they won 2-0 on the road against Villarreal. The hosts played solidly in the first half, but after Renato Veiga's red card, the visitors had complete control of the match. 

Barcelona are very interested in adding more players in January. They are among the clubs that are very interested in RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande. Also, Barca are interested in Porto's striker Samu Aghehowa. 

Barcelona will be without Pedri, Jules Kounde, Gavi, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo in Saturday's city derby against Espanyol.