Barcelona will host Real Madrid in the second La Liga El Clasico of the season tonight. This, remarkably, is the first time that Xavi Hernandez will manage his team at home against their eternal rivals.
For Barca, this could be the game that truly decides their title by extending their nine point lead at the top. On the other hand, it is the last chance that Real Madrid might have to catch up to the league leaders to prevent them from winning the title.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid – El Clasico preview
Barcelona will be without their midfield star Pedri for the big game, which could prove to be a big loss for them. Ousmane Dembele will also not be fit in time for El Clasico, and will miss this one as well.
For Real Madrid, their captain and main striker Karim Benzema has made the squad after concerns over his fitness. Ferland Mendy has also made the squad, and could return to left-back for the game against Barcelona. David Alaba, however, will miss the clash with an injury while Alvaro Rodriguez has not been included.
All things considered, Carlo Ancelotti could field the same starting eleven as their last game. Which means that Ronald Araujo will be back for the game, and could once again neutralise Vinicius Jr on the wing. That is, unless, the Brazilian gets the better of his opponent this time around.
