Mendy, Bellingham to start: Real Madrid predicted lineup vs FC Barcelona | OneFootball

After breaching Manchester City’s fortress, Real Madrid return to their own castle to take on FC Barcelona, in what could be the title decider in case of the home side’s victory.

A strong squad was named for this fixture, however some of the players are bound to feel the after-effects of the 120 minutes at the Etihad.

Ferland Mendy did not take part in the final training session on the eve of the game due to a sore leg and Dani Carvajal was part of just one session before this fixture.

But the club has reassured that both full-backs will be a part of the squad for El Clasico. Moreover, Carlo Ancelotti also hinted at Éder Militão’s presence in the starting lineup.

Here is how Real Madrid can lineup for the game against FC Barcelona.

Just four days after putting on an all-timer goalkeeping performance, the Ukrainian will again be between the sticks for Real Madrid in this fixture. He has kept 10 clean sheets in 19 games and would look to add to his tally.

RB: Lucas Vazquez

The Spaniard would replace Dani Carvajal in the lineup as Ancelotti may not want to take risks with Dani being a pivotal part of the squad. Vazquez has proven to be an able replacement and has had a good season so far.

CB: Nacho

Perhaps the Etihad leg was the best game he has played in a Real Madrid shirt. Before possibly leaving the club at the end of the season, he would want to leave the club on a high and put on a solid show in what could be his last-ever El Clasico.

CB: Antonio Rüdiger

The German scored the winning penalty and allowed Haaland just 11 passes over the both legs. He has been the best center-back in the world this season and the Blaugranes would have to be wary of that.

LB: Ferland Mendy

Although he had a sore leg, Mendy might still start this game. Ancelotti had high praises for him prior to the match, naming him the best defensive left-back this season, and with the performances he has put in, it’s hard to disagree with the Italian. If Mendy does not start, Eduardo Camavinga may take his place.

CM: Fede Valverde

The Uruguayan is in line to make his 46th appearance in as many games the club has played this season. He was named man of the match at the Etihad and has proven to be one of the best players in this position. The midfielder has a knack for scoring goals against Xavi’s side.

CDM: Aurélien Tchouaméni

The defensive midfielder returns to the lineup after missing out the Champions League 2nd leg due to suspension. The Merengues have been unbeaten whenever he has started a match this season – a streak the club would hope continues.

CM: Toni Kroos

The German was taken off in the 79th minute in the midweek but he is in line to make a start against the club’s arch-rivals. Despite his age, he has been a pivotal member of the lineup. If Ancelotti wants, he may also start Luka Modrić in his place.

CAM: Jude Bellingham

The Englishman is going through a goal-scoring drought but has contributed to the team in other ways. However, there would not be a better game than El Clasico for him to end his drought. He is the 2nd highest goal scorer in La Liga as Artem Dovbyk now has 18 goals.

Bellingham would want to score again against the Blaugranes, following a brace he recorded against Xavi’s side earlier in the season.

ST: Rodrygo

He is enjoying a good goal-scoring run, scoring twice against Manchester City over two legs. The Brazilian has scored 10 goals in the league and there is no better time than this to add to his tally.