After tasting their first defeat of the season, FC Barcelona will be desperate for a win this weekend as they take on Real Madrid, in what will be the first El Clasico of the season.
Despite their splendid performances this season, there are more question marks for Barcelona than Real Madrid, heading into this affair, especially amid worsening injury situation and a lack of defensive stability.
Keeping that in mind, coach Hansi Flick must be wary of challenges posed by Real Madrid, not only by the main threats but also by some of the team’s lesser-used players.
In this article, we will take a look at a few players – not only for Barcelona but also Real Madrid as well – who could emerge as an unlikely hero in the season’s first Clasico.
Xavi Espart
Barcelona were given a scare when Xavi Espart had to be subbed off against PSG late in the game, despite a solid performance.
It was later revealed that the player had picked up a knock, leading to the precautionary substitution. The defender is available for the upcoming clash against Real Madrid, in what will be his first Clasico.
Xavai Espart is available vs Real Madrid this weekend. (Picture credit: X/@FCBarcelona)
Espart’s value lies in his omnipresence, starting as a full-back but influencing play all the way into attacking midfield.
His ability to not only stick to defensive duties but also provide those marauding runs forward could come in handy for Barcelona while making life difficult for Real Madrid.
Federico Valverde
The Uruguayan’s versatility is a genuine headache for Flick as Mourinho can utilise him in three different roles – full-back, central midfielder and a right winger.
Likely to be deployed on the right wing, the Real Madrid captain’s pace, aggression and shooting will test a Joao Cancelo who, for all his attacking quality, can be caught out defensively, as was visible in the loss to PSG.
Karim Adeyemi
After a strong start to the season, Karim Adeyemi’s form has waned somewhat in recent matches and he has been a bystander in the last few games.
The German international, therefore, is expected to start on the bench against Real Madrid. But his explosive pace coupled with his prowess on the counter-attack makes him a real asset for the Barcelona frontline.
Adeyemi has a point to prove vs Real Madrid. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Adeyemi could use his energy to make a difference during the final phase of the game.
Carlos Espi
Real Madrid’s well-documented impact sub has scored three goals in just 37 minutes this term, a strike every 12.3 minutes.
In a game of fine margins, Espi barely needs to be involved to be lethal, with his finishing and off-the-ball movement a potent late weapon. Endrick, too, looms as another of Real Madrid’s hidden dangers from the bench.
Gabriel Jesus
In every sense, it is fair to call Gabriel Jesus the Carlos Espi for Barcelona. The Brazilian has been quite lethal in front of goal despite his limited minutes.
Jesus also knows how to hurt Real Madrid, scoring three goals and an assist in four meetings from his time with Manchester City.
Beyond his finishing, his ability to bring clarity and orchestrate play in the final third could prove invaluable for a Barça side now without the injured Dani Olmo.