Hansi Flick talks Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati ahead of Barcelona vs Espanyol

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick spoke about Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati ahead of the Catalan derby

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick discussed Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati ahead of the Catalan derby against Espanyol.

Araujo and De Jong are both set to return to the Barcelona squad for the match against Espanyol after missing the midweek Copa del Rey win over Intercity due to suspension and injury, respectively.

Fati, meanwhile, could make his first appearance in a Barcelona matchday squad since November after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Flick: “Araujo is a very important player and he has shown his quality”

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Flick praised Araujo's impact at Barcelona since joining the club from Uruguayan side Boston River in 2018.

“Araujo is a very important player and he has shown his quality,” Flick said.

"He is a very physical player, he is good in the air and he is also very good with his feet."

Flick: “Frenkie is a key player for us”

De Jong has been a key player for Barcelona since joining the club from Ajax in 2019, and Flick is pleased to have the Dutch midfielder back in his squad.

"Frenkie is a key player for us, Flick said.

“He is a very intelligent player and he can play in different positions, which is very important for us.”

Flick: “Fati is a great talent and we are very happy to have him back”

Fati is one of the most exciting young players in world football, and Flick is delighted to have the 20-year-old back in his squad.

"Fati is a great talent and we are very happy to have him back,” Flick said.

“He is a very dangerous player and he can create chances for his teammates.” He added.

Barcelona will be looking to maintain their unbeaten start to the season when they face Espanyol in the Catalan derby on Saturday.

The match will be played at the Spotify Camp Nou and will kick off at 21:00 CEST.

Barcelona are the heavy favorites to win the match, but Espanyol will be looking to cause an upset and claim bragging rights in the city of Barcelona.