Barcelona will face Espanyol tonight at their home stadium for the Catalan Derby. This match holds special significance as a victory for Barça would secure their La Liga title.

Earlier today, officials from both Catalan clubs had lunch together to send a message of friendship to fans ahead of this tense derby.

The high stakes of this La Liga derby have raised concerns among Spanish authorities, especially due to the events from two years ago. Back then, Barcelona secured the La Liga title with a win over Espanyol, and while Barça players celebrated on the pitch, Espanyol fans stormed the field, attacking Barcelona players with punches, kicks, and even belts.

Mao Ye, Espanyol’s president, said after today’s lunch with Joan Laporta: “At this club, everyone is working professionally to ensure everyone’s safety.”

He added: “We are mentally prepared for this match. The game is important for us too, to mathematically secure our place in La Liga. We are playing in front of our fans and will give our all to earn the points we need. Of course, they won’t make it easy for us, but our team is ready.”