FC Barcelona will have arguably their most important friendly game to worry about next. While the win over Manchester City was definitely a good appetizer, the one match that truly matters comes now. In the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Barcelona and Real Madrid are now set to clash.
Both teams have already played one friendly each on US soil and will come into this game with a much more game-ready tempo. For Barcelona, that friendly resulted in victory over Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. Unfortunately for Real Madrid, however, their game resulted in a 1-0 defeat to Italian side AC Milan.
Despite many key absentees, Hansi Flick will have a decent squad to pick out a starting eleven from, and this is what it could possibly look like.
Expected Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen
The German shot-stopper entered the last game during the second half, but considering that this game is likely to attract a lot of fans and is against Real Madrid, it would not be surprising to see Hansi Flick deploy Ter Stegen from the very start.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
After a long time, Alejandro Balde would have a chance to face off against Real Madrid again. This is his opportunity to shine and the young Spaniard should be a starter without any questions asked. His electrifying pace and offensive contributions could really help Barcelona out in this game.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez
The veteran defender entered the previous game in the second half. This time around, however, he could end up potentially starting unless a certain French defender is deployed as a center-back rather than as a fullback.
Centre-back: Clement Lenglet
It appears that the new Barcelona coach already has a good feeling about Clement Lenglet. After quite a long time, it seems that the French defender is finally getting some form of recognition or value within this Barça team again.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
With the Frenchman now back in the squad, Hansi Flick is given a major boost with his presence. His performances in the European Championship were sublime and Barcelona will hope he can mirror them in the Blaugrana colors again.
CDM: Marc Bernal
The youngsters of Barça continue to pull through, and Marc Bernal’s performance against Manchester City was rightfully praised. He will likely now have another chance to showcase his talents against Real Madrid.
CDM: Marc Casado
A mature presence on the field despite being one of the youngest players there, Marc Casado exudes a certain level of confidence that enables others around him to play better. He should be in contention to start in the upcoming Clasico.
RAM: Raphinha
Similar to Jules Kounde, Raphinha has now also rejoined the Barcelona first team in the United States of America. Following his participation in the Copa America in Brazil, the winger was on vacation but he now returns and should be a starter against Real Madrid if he is match fit.
CAM: Ilkay Gundogan
One of the key reinforcements that Barça welcomes back for this game, Ilkay Gundogan has finally returned from his vacation. The German midfielder will likely add a lot of experience and quality to the current squad.
LAM: Pau Victor
Easily one of the standout performers so far for Hansi Flick in every game or training session that he has overlooked, Pau Victor’s spot in the starting eleven should be a guarantee. With an MVP performance last time out against Manchester City, he will hope for more of the same against Los Blancos.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Not exactly an eventful cameo for the Polish ace last time out against Manchester City, but he will be hoping for more against Real Madrid. Hansi Flick continues to rely on him, and it remains to be seen if that trust pays off.
