El Clasico is just a stone’s throw away, and Jose Mourinho has massive decisions to make in terms of setting his starting XI for the mega clash.
Hansi Flick and Barcelona, quite clearly, have their focus set on the Clasico as they even rotated their squad midweek against PSG in anticipation of the weekend’s game.
Real Madrid, in that sense, will have to come with their best if they are to stand a chance. The momentum is on their side for the first time this season, but Mourinho will have to get his starting lineup perfect if he is to expose Barcelona’s weaknesses.
The midfield plan
Of all the departments on the field, the midfield is where Barcelona seem far ahead of Real Madrid. With Pedri, Rodri and Fermin Lopez set to start, their control of the proceedings will be exceptional.
Camavinga is expected to start vs Barcelona. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
As reported by MARCA, Mourinho has made his decision on the midfield selection for the mega clash – and it packs a solid surprise.
For starters, Aurelien Tchouameni is a guaranteed starter in the defensive midfield as the manager sees his physicality as a necessity against Barcelona. He will, however, not be paired with Federico Valverde, who is set to start as the team’s right-back once more on the night.
Instead, the surprise entrant into the XI is none other than Eduardo Camavinga who is expected to feature in the double pivot alongside his compatriot.
The Frenchman has not had many minutes this season, but he showed great signs of redemption against RB Leipzig and there is hope he can continue the same against Barcelona.
His physicality, ability to progress the ball and dribbling prowess all fit into the scheme of what Mourinho expects.
The fourth midfield member
Guler will start down the right flank. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
In addition to Tchouameni, Camavinga and Valverde, Real Madrid will have a fourth midfield presence in the form of Arda Guler as the Turkish star is set to start against Barcelona on the right wing.
The young midfielder will be given the freedom to venture into attacking spaces and bring creativity to the table – something that will be essential against Barcelona.
Moreover, he, alongside Bellingham and the three other midfielders, will allow Real Madrid a numerical superiority in the middle of the park, which may prove decisive.