The first El Clásico of the season is officially upon us, Xavi reveals his starting line-up, making some changes and choosing a very interesting formation.
This particular XI play their first match together today in what appears to be a 3-5-2 formation. Ferran Torres and Joao Félix took responsibility as twin strikers, the latter playing slightly deeper than the former.
In midfield, Fermin Lopez made his debut for Oriol Romeu.
Ilkay Gundogan is considered the deepest of the three midfielders, while Gabi starts in a forward role.
Joao Cancelo starts on the right wing and attacks on the right flank, while Alejandro Balde holds the wing at the other end.
Inigo Martinez was handed a starting spot after impressive performances against Athletic Club and Shakhtar Donetsk.
He will partner with Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araujo to complete the back three.
Scenariul trio by Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Haha pic.twitter.com/kQKr4wb5ST
— Barcelona FC (@FCBarcelona_cat) Kazan 28, 2023
Bevestigde Barsa XI: ter Stegen; Araujo, Christensen, Inigo; Cancelo, Fermin, Gundogan, Gabi, Balde; Ferran, Felix
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Best of Barcelona trio in Today’s match against Real Madrid.
The Barcelona trio were expected to return for El Clásico, with Lewandowski likely to start the match.
Barcelona have received a huge boost ahead of their clash with Real Madrid this weekend, with Javi Miguel confirming that three of his best players are expected to return and join the squad.
These include Robert Lewandowski, Rafinha and Frenkie de Jong.
All three players picked up injuries in succession before the international break, with de Jong’s deemed the most serious of the three.
Robert Lewandowski
Lewandowski picked up an ankle injury during the game against Porto in the Champions League.
He was replaced by Ferran Torres in the first half, eventually scoring the winning goal.
The Pole has played in some discomfort throughout the season, but Xavi has used him cautiously, taking him out of the game when the game is comfortable for him and not giving him too much time at once.
According to reports, Lewa is expected to play against Real Madrid immediately after the injury.
He can pair him with Joao Felix in attack and Gabi or Fermin Lopez can join the attack.
Raphinha
Rafinha played brilliantly against Mallorca, scoring and assisting, but picked up a hamstring injury against Sevilla.
The Brazilian is expected to be sidelined for at least a month but could return earlier than planned.
He is unlikely to start the game but could be brought on if Barcelona trail by a goal around the hour mark.
Frankie de Jong
Most importantly, Frankie de Jong had a good season before suffering a sprained right ankle.
Barcelona’s form and control have deteriorated significantly since the Dutchman left.
Xavi is unlikely to pose a threat and if he is included in the squad for the match, fans can expect him to start on the bench.
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