It is once again that time of the year in Spanish football. Barcelona take on Real Madrid in the biggest derby of the modern era in world football. The stage is always set for a grand occasion whenever these two sides meet.
The situation this time will have subdued a bit with Barcelona already having won the league title. The Catalan giants have been excellent this season in the domestic circuit from the very beginning. After losing Neymar last summer, the club brought in Ousmane Dembele. The young Frenchman, however, suffered a long-term injury and it was down to Lionel Messi to take care of Barcelona’s season.
The Argentine once again rose up to the occasion and helped Barcelona win the league in grand style. They have been unbeaten all season in the domestic league and will look to end the season that way. They will be facing Real Madrid this weekend who will be looking to play just for pride. The Catalan club beat the Galacticos 3-0 last time out when the two sides met at Santiago Bernabeu and Ernesto Valverde will be hoping that results repeat themselves this time around.
The match will also be a special occasion for a certain Andres Iniesta. The Spanish maestro is set to leave Barcelona after this season and this is likely to be his last El Classico. The timeless genius will be hoping to go out on a high with a win against arch-rivals Real Madrid.
Moreover, Messi will also be hoping to score a few more goals to add to his goal tally, which stands at 43 currently, one ahead of Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo. This is how Barcelona might set themselves up for the match at Camp Nou.
Formation: 4-4-2
Defence
Marc-Andre ter Stegen can be expected between the sticks for the big match. Jordi Alba can be expected to play at left back with Sergi Roberto at right back. Gerard Pique can be expected to play at central defence next to Samuel Umtiti.
Midfield
Sergio Busquets can be expected to line up central midfield next to Ivan Rakitic. Philippe Coutinho could be set for his first El Classico from the left flank with Andres Iniesta on the right wing.
Attack
Luis Suarez can be expected to start up front next to Lionel Messi.
