Lionel Messi has had to abandon his national team through injury and has returned to Barcelona after Argentina's friendly against Venezuela at the Wanda Metropolitano.
As a result, he will miss Argentina's clash with Morocco, although it was unlikely that he would have played that one anyway.
His injury is not serious, but he is not risking further damage. Barcelona's star man has already suffered injuries in that area in the past.
So, it looks as though Ernesto Valverde will be able to count on Messi for next weekend, although the Azulgranas will take special care, to make sure the number 10 avoids injury for the rest of the season.
Also, Luis Suarez rolled his ankle in the match against Real Betis. The good news is that he should return for the derby back to full fitness.
Ousmane Dembele's situation is not quite as positive, who will not feature for Barca against Espanyol. The Frenchman suffered a left hamstring injury during the clash against Lyon in the Champions League.
Valverde, aware that Barca could achieve the treble, has a plan: he wants to finish the season far ahead of Atletico in the league, but he will have to face Espanyol first.
In order to do this, he can't take any risks with his three front men. If he deems it necessary, he could use Malcom and Boateng.