MADRID, Sept 13 V7N- Barcelona, under new manager Hansi Flick, has had a perfect start to the La Liga season with four consecutive wins, igniting excitement among fans. This Sunday, they face a Catalan derby against Girona, seeking to avenge last season's two losses. Girona, who secured a historic third-place finish last year and a spot in the Champions League, have had a mixed start to this campaign, drawing with Real Betis and losing to Atletico Madrid before bouncing back with wins against Osasuna and Sevilla.

Girona, buoyed by their Abu Dhabi owners, were a surprise package last season, even going toe-to-toe with Real Madrid in the title race. Their victories over Barcelona contributed to the sacking of Xavi Hernandez, whose time as Barcelona manager ended in controversy. Barcelona, struggling with Financial Fair Play constraints, had to offload key players like Ilkay Gundogan and Vitor Roque while adding only Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig.

Despite these challenges, Barcelona's attack has been potent, led by Robert Lewandowski, the current La Liga top scorer with four goals, alongside young talent Lamine Yamal and new signing Olmo. Brazilian winger Raphinha has also begun to fulfill his potential after a slow start at the club. While Barcelona will be without injured midfielder Fermin Lopez, the rest of the squad is fit after the international break.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid faces injury problems ahead of their match against Real Sociedad. Key players like Eder Militao, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga are sidelined, giving manager Carlo Ancelotti a selection dilemma. Barcelona currently leads La Liga with 12 points, four ahead of Real Madrid, Atletico, and Villarreal, with Girona sitting five points behind in fifth place.

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