Several key players rested for Barcelona in Copa derby | OneFootball

Despite Ernesto Valverde’s declarations that Espanyol are a ‘difficult’ opponent for whom he has ‘a lot of respect’, the Barcelona manager has rested several key players for this evening’s encounter.

Barcelona travel across town to face Espanyol in the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.

And Valverde has made five changes from Sunday’s win over Celta Vigo as he faces his former club.

Luis Suárez, Marc-André ter Stegen, Jordi Alba and André Gomes all take places on the bench.

Young midfielder Carles Aleñá is given the nod and Denis Suárez will accompany Lionel Messi in attack.

Samuel Umtiti is not yet fit enough to return to the squad but Rafinha, who has been the subject of intense speculation over a possible move to Inter, is on the bench for Barça.

Espanyol made three changes from their 1-1 draw with Athletic Club on Sunday as Marc Navarro, Javi Fuego, and Naldo come into the side.