Expected Line-up of FC Barcelona against Real Madrid

Barca vs Real Madrid: Expected line-up

FC Barcelona prepare themselves to face off against El Clasico rivals Real Madrid in the first leg of their heavily anticipated Copa Del Rey semi-final. Both teams will be looking to mark another chapter in their respective El Clasico stories.

Given some prominent absentees from the Barcelona squad list, changes are inevitable in Xavi’s starting eleven. The following is how FC Barcelona may potentially line up against Real Madrid.

Barcelona vs Madrid: Potential Line-up

Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter Stegen

The German international will undoubtedly be Xavi Hernandez’s trusted deputy in between the sticks in front of the Barcelona goal. His current form has saved Barcelona on a handful of occasions, and El Clasicos are always a real test for participating goalkeepers.

Right-back: Jules Kounde

The Frenchman has had his fair share of great performances for FC Barcelona, yet also a few mishaps. The defender will however continue to be a huge defensive asset to the Catalan defense and must be trusted to hold his own against Real Madrid’s barrage of attacks.

Centre-back: Andreas Christensen

Hailing from Denmark, the defender will again be called upon despite a minor blow he suffered during yesterday’s training session to partner alongside Barcelona’s most trusted backline and utilize his playmaking abilities as well as composure on the ball to aid his team when in possession or even without it courtesy of his defensive capabilities.

Centre-back: Ronald Araujo

Barcelona’s most trusted defender within that reliable backline, the Uruguayan tends to be a key player against Real Madrid no matter the competition, and can be entrusted to be there to keep Los Blancos at bay should the need arrive.

Left-back: Alejandro Balde

The electric fullback was pivotal in Barcelona’s triumph over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final, and his youth and athleticism will be tested once more against these Spanish goliaths.

CDM: Sergio Busquets

The Spanish veteran and Barcelona captain has his own fair share of historic encounters with Real Madrid, yet his longevity in terms of consistency and quality has ensured he withstands the test of time and features once more against Los Merengues.

CM: Frenkie De Jong

The Dutchman’s mesmeric runs and composure under pressure are vital traits that have helped him stand out this season even in the toughest of fixtures, and his quality as a footballer alongside his broader understanding of the game could prove to be of essential importance to FC Barcelona.

CM: Sergi Roberto

With Pedri out, Xavi prefers to entrust Sergi Roberto to fulfill his duties, as the manager feels the two midfielders to be akin in certain qualities. The veteran has experience against Real Madrid, and it will be needed again in this upcoming clash.

Right-winger: Raphinha

Barcelona’s Brazilian winger has been pleasing fans with his displays of energy and productivity in recent times in the absence of Ousmane Dembele, albeit not to the same levels as the Frenchman. He seems to be a sure slot in for that right winger spot.

Centre-forward: Ferran Torres

With Robert Lewandowski unavailable due to injury and Ansu Fati himself having just returned from the sidelines, it seems that Ferran Torres is arguably the only useable center forward option Xavi has at his disposal. Given the Spaniard’s recent form, he might just end up being a positive asset for the Blaugrana.

Left-winger: Gavi

The young midfielder looked lethargic against Almeria and is going to be absent against Valencia due to suspension, so should he need to find a better reasoning to mark his moment in yet another El Clasico, this one would be the prime time to hit his best strides in order to revitalize the faith the Blaugrana faithful have in him.

The Latest

Barcelona midfielder rues defensive mistakes after Mallorca draw

The draw against Mallorca is seemingly being felt sharply by the players and coach of FC Barcelona, not so much because of the dropped...

Barcelona youngster reacts after scoring his first league goal: “I’m very grateful to Xavi”

FC Barcelona saw their winning run in La Liga come to an end because of the draw to Mallorca last night. While the final...

Mallorca coach agrees Barcelona should have been awarded a penalty in last night’s 2-2 draw

FC Barcelona drew against Mallorca last night and dropped two important points that can come to haunt them later in the title race. The visitors...

Xavi highlights mistakes as Barcelona draw against Mallorca

FC Barcelona saw their winning streak in La Liga come to an end as they drew the last night’s match against Mallorca. Although Barcelona...

Barcelona find a 15-year-old anomaly in the youth ranks – report

There is often an identity associated with FC Barcelona that visualizes a certain style of football. Flowing, strategic, positionally astute, and always capable of...

Barcelona maintain full faith in 17-year-old German prodigy – report

FC Barcelona consider its youngsters to be their pathway to the future and a gateway to success in the years up ahead. Their development,...

Xavi’s substitutes have been saviors for Barcelona – report

FC Barcelona are competing for several major trophies this season. The Catalans will be defending their Spanish Champions title while also competing for the...

Ter Stegen 6.0, Gavi 8.5 | Barcelona 2-2 Mallorca: Player ratings

Following a thrilling encounter, FC Barcelona share the spoils with RCD Mallorca over a 2-2 draw. With both sides having tried to play to...

Official: Barcelona starting XI to take on RDC Mallorca

FC Barcelona are raring to have a go at RCD Mallorca in their upcoming league clash at the Iberostar stadium in the Balearic Islands....