Hans Flick, the head coach of FC Barcelona, is preparing to make significant changes to the team's backline during the upcoming match against Espanyol in the 36th round of La Liga, which could see the title decided in favor of the Catalan team.

Defender Inigo Martinez will miss the derby due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards, which is considered a major blow for Flick, especially with the increasing number of goals conceded by the team recently, as Barcelona has conceded 13 goals in the last 5 matches.

Martinez's absence adds to the injury list that includes Koundé, Marc Bernal, and Pablo Torre, pushing Flick to rely on new names in defensive positions.

Flick is expected to rely on Eric Garcia at right-back, who has become a key player since Koundé's injury, while Alejandro Balde may replace Gerard Martin on the left side, although the German coach tends to be cautious with players returning from injury.

In central defense, Pau Koubarsky will take on the main responsibility, alongside a strong possibility of Ronald Araujo participating, and Christensen's appearance is not ruled out after his remarkable performance in the last half hour of the Clasico, despite his long absence this season.