FC Barcelona has unveiled its squad list for the high-stakes El Clásico against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu as they aim to seize the La Liga lead.
Departing for the Spanish capital tonight, the Blaugrana, under Hansi Flick, face a defining clash despite a crippling injury crisis.
The announced roster blends seasoned stars, promising academy talents, and new signings, offering hope as Barcelona seeks to capitalize on their recent 6-1 Champions League rout of Olympiacos to challenge the league-leading Merengues.
Key inclusions feature Jules Koundé and Frenkie de Jong, both cleared for action after recent fitness concerns, as per the official squad list of FC Barcelona.
Koundé, who trained normally on Saturday, per Barca Universal, overcame doubts about a knock to bolster the defense alongside likely starters Pau Cubarsí and Alejandro Balde.
De Jong, recovered from gastroenteritis, joins Pedri in the midfield pivot, providing control and creativity.
However, Andreas Christensen, despite training on Friday and Saturday, misses out due to ongoing recovery from gastroenteritis.
The absence of Robert Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Joan García, and Marc-André ter Stegen further tests Barcelona’s depth, with Wojciech Szczęsny expected to anchor the goal.
Flick has turned to La Masia for reinforcement, with academy full-backs Xavi Espart and Jofre Torrents earning call-ups, alongside midfield prospects Dro and Toni Fernández.
Their inclusion underscores Barcelona’s reliance on youth to navigate this critical fixture.
Adding intrigue, new signings Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji could make their El Clásico debuts, potentially bringing flair and unpredictability to the attack.
Fermín López, fresh off a hat-trick against Olympiacos, is likely to feature prominently in Flick’s 4-2-3-1 setup, aiming to exploit Real Madrid’s injury-hit defense.
As Barcelona prepares to face Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid, the squad list reflects resilience and ambition despite adversity.
With Koundé and De Jong fit and young talents stepping up, the Blaugrana are poised for a fierce battle.
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