Barcelona are preparing for the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid with a sense of stability and confidence that was missing just a few months ago. According to a report on El Larguero, head...
Barcelona are preparing for the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid with a sense of stability and confidence that was missing just a few months ago.
According to a report on El Larguero, head coach Hansi Flick has decided to largely trust the same starting XI that dismantled Athletic Club 5-0 in the semi-final.
The plan, however, is not without a minor adjustment. Flick is expected to make just one change to that lineup, with Lamine Yamal coming in on the right wing in place of Roony Bardghji.
A different Barcelona side
This upcoming final arrives in a very different context compared to the last Clasico meeting between the two sides.
Back on October 26 at the Santiago Bernabeu, Barcelona suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat in a match that exposed their limitations at the time.
That encounter was played under extremely difficult circumstances, as Barcelona were missing as many as seven key players, and Flick was not even present on the bench.
The team went into the game stretched thin, both physically and mentally, and the result reflected that reality.
Fast forward to now, and the picture has changed dramatically. Barcelona have undergone a clear transformation in both performance levels and squad availability.
Lamine Yamal will replace Roony Bardghji against Real Madrid. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
Injured players have returned, and competition for places has increased. This evolution is also reflected in their domestic form, with the Blaugrana enjoying an outstanding run in La Liga.
Since that defeat at the Bernabeu, Barcelona have recorded nine league victories, establishing themselves comfortably at the top and restoring belief within the squad.
No experiments
Despite this progress, Flick has opted against unnecessary experimentation.
The defensive line is set to feature Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia and Alejandro Balde, a back four that has shown balance between solidity and attacking support.
In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will operate as the double pivot, offering control, creativity and composure.
Ahead of them, Raphinha is expected to take on the role of attacking midfielder, linking play and pressing high.
Out wide, Marcus Rashford and Yamal will provide pace and direct threat, while Ferran Torres is set to lead the line as the central striker.
Category: General Sports
