As the teams take to the field at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Saturday, one thing is clear: Barcelona are poised to strike a significant blow against their arch-rivals Real Madrid. A win would see them move six points clear of the reigning champions and cement their impressive start to the 2024/25 season under the guidance of Hansi Flick.
Despite a lengthy injury list, Barca have shown remarkable resilience, losing just two matches under Flick’s tenure. The return of key personnel and exceptional form will undoubtedly give them hope of ending their Clasico drought, which dates back to March 2023.
The team is expected to line up with Inaki Pena between the sticks, Jules Kounde and Pau Cubarsi in the centre of defense, and Inigo Martinez and Alejandro Balde at fullback. Marc Casado and Pedri will anchor the midfield, while Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha will provide the attacking flair. Robert Lewandowski, currently in scintillating form, will lead the line.
The stakes are high, and this team will need to be at their best to overcome the might of Real Madrid. Flick’s deployment of Casado in midfield has been a masterstroke, and the 21-year-old has shouldered the pressure with aplomb. Pedri, too, will be crucial in a deeper role, providing stability and precision in the centre of the park.
Real Madrid, however, will not go down without a fight. Carlo Ancelotti may switch to a 4-3-1-2 formation to combat Barca’s attacking threat, tasking Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham with unlocking the visitors’ defense.
This promises to be an exciting and intense encounter, with both sides determined to make their mark on the Spanish league. Will Barca be able to pull off the upset and derail Real Madrid’s title hopes, or will the defending champions prove too strong for their flailing rivals? The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu.
