As is generally the case, tonight’s match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid will also be determined to a large extent by the way things go in the middle of the field.
Both the clubs have a strong midfield this season, but as previously reported here, Xavi can make changes in his system for this match to play four midfielders to match the numbers in Madrid’s central zones.
With the numbers equal, the individual qualities of these midfielders will determine the battle in this area of the field. While the starting elevens are not yet out, there are two midfielders identified by SPORT who are almost sure to start for their respective sides.
For Barcelona, Ilkay Gundogan has been the most trusted and reliable midfielder this season. The German is the only player in the squad to have played all 27 official games for the Catalan club this season, accumulating 2155 minutes.
His continuity in the midfield has come despite the injuries to other starting midfielders like Pedri, Gavi, and Frenkie de Jong. Gundogan has played different roles in the midfield, including that of a pivot, an interior, and also as a conductor. His vision was there for everyone to behold as he gave the assist for Lewandowski’s goal against Osasuna.
For Real Madrid, Federico Valverde is the player to have played the highest minutes, and like Gundogan, he also has appeared in all 27 official games for his club, getting his minutes tally to 2126. Ancelotti has preferred Valverde even ahead of trusted veterans like Modric and Kroos, whom he had to alternate between this season.
Gundogan surpasses Valverde in numbers, as the German has three goals and seven assists to the Uruguayan’s one goal and three assists. However, the latter has been more important on a physical level, and his presence allows other midfielders in Madrid like Modric, Kroos, and Bellingham to shine more freely.
The upcoming match will see these two midfielders battle it out once again. The midfield battle will be a particularly entertaining aspect of the match, and can turn out to be decisive for both sides.
