FC Barcelona look set to partake in their second game of the pre-season tour of the United States of America in a clash that needs little to no introduction. Up next for the Catalan giants is their eternal Spanish rival, Real Madrid.
After having lost 5-3 to Arsenal in their opening game of the tour, Barcelona will be looking to turn their pre-season form around with a win in El Clasico. Here is how FC Barcelona are expected to line up:
Potential Line-up:
Goalkeeper: Marc Andre Ter Stegen
There is little to no doubt about who Barcelona will trust to start in between the sticks for arguably their most important game of the pre-season tour. The German international is now the second captain of La Blaugrana and will be hoping to lead his side against a strong Real Madrid unit.
Right-back: Jules Kounde
After having spent the last game on the bench for the first half, it is possible that Jules Kounde will now be paired up with the rest of Barca’s primary defenders who led the Catalans to a La Liga title last season courtesy of their spectacular defensive numbers.
Centre-back: Ronald Araujo
A strong and valiant display in the first 45 minutes against Arsenal, the Uruguayan will be a sure shot for Xavi to field in the upcoming game for Barcelona. The new third captain will also be hoping to lend his leadership on the field when needed.
Centre-back: Andreas Christensen
Continues to amaze with his brilliant work on the ball as well as his defensive solidity off the ball. The Danish defender will be expected to hold the defensive line alongside Ronald Araujo.
Left-back: Alejandro Balde
Blitzing pace and a constant nuisance for opposition defenders and forwards all game long, Balde continues to prove exactly why those at Barcelona are so invested in the 19-year-old La Masia fullback.
CDM: Oriol Romeu
In what can only be categorized as a rather wild debut against Arsenal, the new recruit from Girona seems to need more time to properly fit in with this current Barcelona squad given his unique specialties from those that were possessed by Sergio Busquets.
CM: Pedri
The young magician will be a massive pillar of hope and value to FC Barcelona heading into the new season. The current number 8 for the Catalans possesses maturity and technical prowess well beyond his years, and Xavi hopes for it to shine through against Real Madrid.
CM: Ilkay Gundogan
Far more composed on the ball than most of the players in the game against Arsenal, Gundogan has already started to showcase his top-tier adaptability and continues to adjust to FC Barcelona since his arrival from Manchester City.
Left-winger/false winger: Gavi
Having been rested for the previous outing against the opposition from London due to some minor discomfort, it seems that Xavi Hernandez may choose to deploy the youngster in his usual false winger role to take on Real Madrid.
Centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski
Almost inevitable at times when it comes to finding the back of the net, the Polish striker even managed to net one against Arsenal in the last game. His clinical touch will be crucial against both Real Madrid and for the rest of the upcoming season for Barcelona.
Right-winger: Ousmane Dembele
Amidst reports of the player potentially being on the verge of leaving for French side Paris Saint-Germain, there will not be a better time than any for the winger to showcase his determination and importance to Barcelona than in this upcoming El Clasico clash.
Expected Line up:
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Ter Stegen
Defenders: Balde, Christensen, Araujo, Kounde
Midfielders: Pedri, Romeu, Gundogan
Forwards: Gavi, Lewandowski, Dembele
