The first El Classico of this season is scheduled to take place on Sunday. Barcelona will welcome Real Madrid at the Camp Nou in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup for what is expected to be a mouth watering contest.
Barcelona regained some semblance of pride by winning the Copa Del Rey last season while Real Madrid stamped their authority as they outpaced Barcelona to win the La Liga title after a long gap of four years along with the Champions League.
This will be Ernesto Valverde’s first acid test after taking over the charge of the Catalans in the summer. The famous MSN trio will no more be seen playing together after Neymar’s world record transfer to Paris Saint Germain recently.
It remains to be seen whether the Catalans struggle without their star Brazilian or Valverde does have some secret armour at his disposal to create havoc at the Nou Camp this season.
Predicted 4-3-3 Barcelona Lineup against Real Madrid
Defence
Marc Andre ter-Stegen will be under the bar to safeguard the goal. The German international has been pretty consistent between the sticks and has been the preferred choice for the Spanish giants.
Samuel Umtiti looked pretty comfortable marshalling the backline last season and he is set to be restored in the heart of the defence.
Gerard Pique will have the chance to earn the confidence of the gaffer with a good performance in this match. He is set to partner the French international in defence.
Nelson Semedo was one of the most significant arrivals at the Nou Camp this season and the gaffer is expected to hand him a start in this crucial game.
Jordi Alba will have his chances on the left side.
Midfield
Barcelona looked best whenever they played with a three man midfield last season and Valverde is set to reinstate the formation. Sergio Busquets will be at the anchor position in their three-pronged midfield. The veteran midfielder didn’t have a good season last term and will try to roll up his sleeves and put on a better display.
Ivan Rakitic and Andres Iniesta will form the rest of the midfield contingent. Midfield has been one of the strongest points for the Catalans over the years but last year wasn’t the same as both the midfielders endured a pretty shoddy campaign.
Attack
Gerard Deulofeu is likely to take the place vacated by Neymar. Barcelona re-signed him following some spirited performances by the player last season and he is expected to live up to the expectations.
Lionel Messi will have the daunting task to break down Real’s defence.
Luis Suarez will lead the line.
