Real Madrid stars Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler have turned their attention to Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona.
After securing a 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Champions League, both players have stressed the importance of the encounter as Jose Mourinho’s side look to reduce the six-point gap in La Liga.
Speaking after Madrid’s Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig, Mbappe explained how the squad had deliberately avoided distractions before the European encounter.
Mbappe explains Real Madrid’s approach to El Clasico
As quoted by FCB World, Mbappe acknowledged that facing Barça carries a different significance from other fixtures.
“El Clasico is completely different,” the French forward said.
“We were only thinking about the Leipzig match. As for what will happen on Sunday, we can think about it now.”
Mbappe is confident of his team putting on a show against Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Mbappe insisted that the squad had not allowed the upcoming Clasico to influence its preparations for Leipzig.
“Before that, the team wasn’t thinking about Sunday’s match.”
It is the kind of mentality Mourinho always insists on: players should focus on what lies immediately ahead of them.
As a manager, he may be forced to consider the Barcelona fixture when making changes to the line-up, but the players cannot afford to get distracted.
Arda Guler confident Madrid can challenge Barcelona
Guler was equally clear about Madrid’s intentions when asked about the Barcelona encounter.
“It’s a big match, a match of the highest level, and we’ll give everything we have to win,” the Turkey midfielder declared.
He also emphasised the expectations that come with representing Real Madrid.
“We are Real Madrid, and we have to win every match. We’re ready.”
For Barcelona, it is a clear message that Los Blancos are completely focussed on the Barça clash and want to give it their best possible effort.
Arda Guler has sent a strong message to Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Madrid cannot afford to fall further behind in the title race, particularly with Flick’s side already enjoying a six-point advantage.
The Catalan club need to ensure they do exactly that. Barça should put on a statement performance on Sunday to effectively send a message to the rest of La Liga.
A victory would extend their lead to nine points and deliver a significant psychological boost after the disappointment against PSG.
Sunday’s clash promises to be exciting for both Barça and Madrid fans, and it remains to be seen how the game turns out.