Stakes will be very high when two of the most high-profile teams, Barcelona and Real Madrid will entertain each other in a vastly relevant El Classico. Things have gone wrong in the last few days for the Catalans as they bowed out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals stage for two consecutive years running.
Malaga did a huge favour to Real Madrid as they hunted down Barcelona in the La Liga leaving the Catalans no option but to go for a win in the next match. This will be Luis Enrique’s last big match as he will be stepping down from the post of the manager as soon as the season ends.
Things aren’t over for them as they could still lift the title but for that, they have to ensure a win against their archrivals.
Predicted 4-3-3 Barcelona Lineup Against Real Madrid
Defence
Marc-Andre Ter Stegen has to lift his team after a set of disappointing results. The German international has often been exposed by the frailties and there is no room for error for him as the opponents have some big guns with the likes of Ronaldo and Benzema.
Gerard Pique has been the leader from the back for the Catalans. It will be a do or die situation for the Catalans and the tall defender will relish this opportunity.
Samuel Umtiti will provide the necessary cover which is very important in these kinds of matches.
Jordi Alba will have a free role on the left side. A veteran of many El Classicos he knows exactly how to cope up with the pressure.
Sergi Roberto will take up the right back position.
Midfield
The three-man midfield system has worked well for the Spaniard gaffer and he will once again rely on it. Sergio Busquets has been far from his best but there is no other option in that position and he is expected to be in the starting lineup.
Andres Iniesta has also struggled to be at his peak of form but he will have a major role to play.
Barcelona needs flair and solidity in the middle of the park and Ivan Rakitic could be the man to provide that quality.
Attack
Neymar is suspended and Luis Enrique has to decide between Arda Turan and Paco Alcacer and the latter is favourites to get the nod.
Lionel Messi is the man of the moment right now and all eyes will be on him.
Luis Suarez is having a barren run of goals and will be looking to end his goal drought.
