FC Barcelona are just around 24 hours away from taking on arch-rivals Real Madrid in El Clasico. Already the eleventh game of their respective La Liga campaigns, both sides will be going for all three points. The Montjuic Stadium awaits the legendary encounter, but it may have to witness a few twists.
Heading into the clash, several reports suggest that Xavi Hernandez may have a few tricks up his sleeve. From returning players who were previously thought to be out for the clash, to tactical changes that could surprise their opponents, Xavi continues to hide his cards well. Most of these will be unveiled in time, but it seems one has already been found out.
Vini Jr’s Kryptonite
One of the most pressing concerns heading into El Clasico was the right-back position dilemma. While Portuguese star Joao Cancelo has made that position his own this season, Barcelona have a different method of countering Los Blancos when it comes to El Clasico.
With the help of Ronald Araujo, Xavi often deployed the 23-year-old as a right-back against Vinicius Jr. This tactic has worked wonders for Blaugrana’s coach and for Barcelona in general. Heading into this upcoming match, it now seems that Xavi will stick with his trusted measures.
Midfield introduction
According to the latest update by SPORT, it appears that Xavi has an experimental formation in mind. By deploying Araujo as a right-back, Xavi hopes to utilize Cancelo’s creativity in the midfield. He will look to deploy the Portuguese star as a central midfielder and have a new set of priorities for him.
By giving him the freedom to attack the wings, Xavi will continue to make use of his offensive abilities. However, Cancelo will also be expected to help out Ilkay Gundogan in midfield.
This would be done to minimize the threat of Jude Bellingham. In turn, this would result in Oriol Romeu not being likely to start if this is the formation Xavi chooses.
Other Barcelona players that could start depend on the presence of the currently injured stars. In the event that Robert Lewandowski ends up making the starting eleven, he will be one of the two guarantees alongside Joao Felix.
The third player on the right wing will then either be Ferran Torres or Lamine Yamal, depending on Xavi’s preference.
