Xavi's men thus hold the fate of the championship in their own hands but they could be crowned champions before the derby even takes place.

The most important thing for Barcelona is that they don't have to worry about anyone else to win La Liga's ultimate prize this season.

If they beat Espanyol on Sunday at 8pm BST, the title will return to their trophy cabinet after several years of drought.

They have certainly earned that right and are on the brink of achieving a joyous return to glory with four games yet to play.

It just so happens, though, that due to the way the fixtures have fallen, they will play at Espanyol already knowing what their closest title rivals have done in the round and possibly, having already won the title.

The first of those playing, now in third place after their latest setbacks, are archrivals Real Madrid. Carlo Ancelotti's side, who are fully focused on their Champions League semi-final, play against Getafe on Saturday at 8pm BST.

Getafe need to win to get out of the relegation zone. And surely, Los Blancos will rotate with the second leg of the Champions League semi-final in mind.

If Madrid don't win, they would no longer be able to overtake Barcelona mathematically and so Xavi's side would only have Atletico Madrid to worry about as potential title challengers.

Atleti, meanwhile, play at on Sunday afternoon at the Martinez Valero stadium against an already relegated Elche side.

If Diego Simeone's side drop points by either losing or drawing, Barça would become champions three hours before their derby takes place.

If, on the other hand, Real and Atletico both win their respective games, Barcelona have to beat Espanyol to be crowned champions this weekend.

Follow all the action from La Liga this weekend on Flashscore!