Barcelona Prepares to Extend La Liga Lead Against Leganes

LEGANÉS, Spain — FC Barcelona is set to face CD Leganes Saturday evening at Estadio Municipal de Butarque, aiming to extend their lead in La Liga to seven points. Manager Hansi Flick has emphasized that the team remains fully focused on the upcoming match rather than their UEFA Champions League semifinal against Borussia Dortmund.

Barcelona currently sits atop the La Liga table with 85 points, four points clear of Real Madrid, following Madrid’s recent loss to Valencia. A victory against Leganes would give Barcelona a significant advantage in the title race, allowing them to capitalize on Real Madrid’s struggles.

“We are not underestimating any matches. Every point is crucial as we aim for the title,” Flick stated during a pre-match press conference. The manager indicated his intent to rotate players to manage the demanding schedule ahead, particularly with the second leg against Dortmund approaching.

Barcelona’s previous encounter with Leganes this season ended in an unexpected defeat, highlighting the need for caution. Flick pointed out that Leganes has shown resilience, making it all the more important for Barcelona to be clinical in front of the goal.

“Clinical finishing will be key. We must capitalize on every opportunity,” Flick added. In their last midweek game against Dortmund, Barcelona displayed a refreshing performance with a 4-0 victory, relieving some of the pressure on the squad.

As Barcelona prepares for the match, they are without several players, including Dani Olmo and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who are still recovering from injuries. Flick confirmed that Ronald Araujo and Inigo Martinez would anchor the defense, with rotations likely throughout the squad.

With just eight matchdays remaining, the stakes are higher than ever. A win against Leganes would further solidify Barcelona’s status as title contenders as they chase a potential treble. Flick acknowledged that maintaining momentum is essential during this critical phase of the season.

“We’ve learned from our mistakes in the past, and tomorrow will be no different. We need to build on our performance without complacency,”

he emphasized. The anticipation builds as players like Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski lead the attack with hopes turned toward seizing three vital points.