Real Madrid vs Barcelona: Expected Starting XI for second league Clasico
The Catalans have the chance to inflict more misery on Real Madrid by effectively knocking them out of the title race.
Barcelona inflicted a 3-0 defeat on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in the midweek Copa del Rey Clasico to come away 4-1 victors on aggregate. It was an odd game in that Real arguably played better, but Barca were efficient with their chances and held off the opposition more effectively as the match went on due to their energy levels dropping.
The gap currently stands at nine points between the two teams with Atletico sandwiched inbetween, so Real desperately need a win to stay relevant in the league as there are only 13 games left. Their inconsistency this season means they have averaged less than two points per game in the league and, therefore, they are unlikely to overcome the large gap.
Even though this is one of the most hotly anticipated clashes of the season for both teams due to the nature of the rivalry, Ernesto Valverde has to consider rotation as there are more important matches coming up, such as Lyon in less than two weeks, so key players need to be kept fresh.
Expected Starting XI (4-3-3)
Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Nelson Semedo, Gerard Pique, Samuel Umtiti, Jordi Alba
Carles Alena, Ivan Rakitic, Arthur Melo
Ousmane Dembele, Luis Suarez, Malcom
Umtiti’s recent return to fitness means Valverde can afford to give Clement Lenglet a rest in this tough clash as he has plenty of experience at the top level and has played in this fixture multiple times. Aside from that, there is unlikely to be any changes in the defence as Real are still a dangerous opponent.
Arthur has recently returned from injury and was a substitute in the midweek Clasico, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him start this match due to how he aids ball progression and helps dictate the tempo of matches. It would also be wise to give Sergio Busquets a rest with Rakitic dropping into the defensive midfield position due to his versatility. Alena has shown more than enough this season to earn a starting place in this match, which would be a great learning experience for the youngster due to the high stakes nature of the game.
Lionel Messi wasn’t at his usual best in the midweek Clasico as he had a relatively quiet match, but the team was able to get a result without him thanks in part to Dembele. Valverde can afford to give him a rest in this match with the option to use him as a substitute if needed.
Malcom performed well in the 1-1 draw in the Copa del Rey semi-finals first leg but hasn’t been given any opportunities since. This would be the perfect time to give him another chance to impress. Having him and Dembele on either wing should give the Real defence plenty of problems as well as providing the option to switch wings during the match. Suarez has recently hit form and usually saves his best performances for Los Blancos so he should be kept in to keep his confidence high.