Martin, Olmo start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Real Madrid | OneFootball

Barcelona are all set to face Real Madrid in the last El Clasico of the 2024/25 season, and it is shaping up to be a potential La Liga title decider.

With just four points separating the two giants, a win could make a huge difference at this late stage in the campaign. A victory would give one side a massive confidence boost, while the other could suffer a serious hit mentally.

What works in Barcelona’s favour is their recent record against Real Madrid. They have beaten them three times already this season, and none of those wins were close.

One came in the Spanish Super Cup final, another in the Copa del Rey final, and the third in the league. That kind of record gives Barça a big edge going into this clash.

Of course, while a draw is not ideal, it is also not a disaster. But Barcelona do not play for draws, however, if they manage to avoid defeat, they will still be in control of the title race.

Keeping things tight and making sure they do not lose could be enough at this stage. Now, let’s look at how Barcelona might line up against their biggest rivals.

Defence

Wojciech Szczesny has not been at his best. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

In goal, Wojciech Szczesny will start once again. Despite not being at his best recently and with Marc-Andre ter Stegen returning to fitness, manager Hansi Flick has shown full confidence in the Polish keeper.

Szczesny will get another big chance to prove himself in one of the season’s most important matches.

Defensively, there is no Jules Kounde, so Eric Garcia will continue at right-back. In the centre, Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez will form the core of the backline, with Gerard Martin starting on the left.

Alejandro Balde has been cleared by the medical staff, but he is not expected to play a full role. He might come on late in the match if needed, but Flick will likely ease him back in.

Midfield

Pedri and De Jong will be Barcelona’s pivots. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will take control. Marc Casado is back from injury but has not had enough minutes under his belt to start such a big game.

De Jong remains Flick’s go-to option in the double pivot role, and Gavi will also bring fresh energy off the bench if required.

The attacking midfield position is where there could be one change. Dani Olmo is expected to start ahead of Fermin Lopez.

Olmo had a mixed outing in Milan, where he was caught out for Inter’s goal but later made up for it with a crucial header. That moment might just be enough to keep him in the XI.

Attack

Ferran Torres will keep his place. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In the final third, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres look set to lead the line. Yamal and Raphinha are regular starters, while Ferran has hit great form in the second half of the season.

Robert Lewandowski made a return in the Champions League, but he’s still not at 100%. Flick has been careful not to rush him back. The striker might come on for the last 15–20 minutes, depending on how the game plays out.

With two more matches coming up next week, it’s likely Flick won’t take any big risks with Lewandowski’s fitness.

In the end, Barcelona know what is at stake. Whether it is a win or a draw, as long as they do not lose, they stay ahead in the title race. That is the only thing that matters now.