Xavi Hints at Return of Key Players as Barca Aims to Gain Edge over Los Blancos in Title Race
In a highly anticipated El Clasico clash, FC Barcelona is poised to take on Real Madrid this Saturday, with the potential return of key players adding to the excitement. Head coach Xavi Hernandez, in a pre-match press conference, teased the comeback of previously injured stars such as Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong.
Despite Girona securing a 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo on Friday evening, a triumph for Barca at the Montjuic Stadium won’t guarantee them the top spot in La Liga. However, it could propel them two points ahead of rivals Real Madrid, exerting significant influence on the title race leading up to the season’s conclusion in late May.
The clash, expected to draw hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide, will see Marc-Andre ter Stegen guarding the goal, aiming for his second consecutive clean sheet in the league. The defensive lineup comprises Alejandro Balde, Inigo Martinez, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo, who takes on the challenge of containing the formidable Vinicius Jr at right back.
In the midfield trio, Ilkay Gundogan assumes the pivotal role, supported by Gavi and Fermin Lopez. Notably, right back Joao Cancelo is set to feature as the right winger in a strategic move by Xavi, with the possibility of 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal making a crucial impact from the bench. The striker position is likely to be filled by Ferran Torres, though a last-minute fitness decision could see Robert Lewandowski taking the lead. Joao Felix completes the attacking lineup, seeking to exploit his knowledge of the opponent from his days at Atletico Madrid.
On the Real Madrid front, Kepa starts in goal, supported by a defensive line featuring Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Carvajal. Ancelotti opts for a 4-4-2 formation with Bellingham, Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, and Aurelien Tchouameni in midfield. With no natural number 9 on the starting lineup, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo form the attacking duo, aiming to capitalize on Barcelona’s vulnerabilities.
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