Barcelona next welcome the hurdle of Real Madrid as Los Blancos visit the Montjuic Stadium. Scheduled to take place on the 28th of October, El Clasico this time around could be crucial to La Liga. With one point separating those within the top four, Barcelona and Real Madrid will both want to take all the spoils.
However, there are a few questions that linger. The injured players are still a concern that Barcelona need to adjust their game plan according to. On the other hand, even if they end up making it in time to enter the squad list, they will not end up being in contention to start the game.
Deducing the lineup
In light of the recent match against Shakhtar Donetsk, an idea of the lineup for El Clasico can be deduced. Courtesy of SPORT, the players most likely to start the game against Real Madrid have been highlighted.
Marc Andre Ter Stegen’s involvement will be guaranteed. As he has done all season, the German goalkeeper will once again be counted on for the clash against Los Blancos. The defense, on the other hand, is an interesting topic that is open to varying ideas.
Rotations and fatigue
With Andreas Christensen and Alejandro Balde rested against Shakhtar, their involvement seems more or less guaranteed. The other two positions will likely be occupied by Ronald Araujo and Joao Cancelo.
However, if Araujo is deployed as the primary right-back, Xavi could choose to use Cancelo in a more advanced role and possibly even bring Inigo Martinez back into the mix.
Missing slots
The midfield seems to already be guaranteed for two players. Ilkay Gundogan will bring quality and experience to the team, while the previously suspended Gavi will likely return as well. The last midfield slot will be contested between Oriol Romeu and Fermin Lopez.
Lastly, the frontline will see at least two positions will be occupied by Ferran Torres and Joao Felix. The Portuguese star and the Spanish forward both endured knocks against Shakhtar, but will be fully available for the Real Madrid encounter.
The final slot in the frontline will have to be decided closer to the game, however. With Lamine Yamal having played the full game against Shakhtar, his chances of starting do seem lower than that of Fermin Lopez’s.
