Bellingham, Vinicius to start | Predicted Real Madrid lineup against FC Barcelona | OneFootball

The Montjuic stadium plays host to a mouthwatering clash between two of Europe’s biggest rivals, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

It’s not just three points at stake, but also a chance for both sides to stay in the title race and for Real Madrid in particular, to get one up on their nemesis for the first and only time this season.

The defensive options remain the same for the Merengues, and changes are not expected to be made to the backline that took the field against Celta Vigo.

Moreover, Arda Guler made sure to cement his place in the lineup for the rest of the season ahead, after an outstanding display in the last match.

Having said that, here is how Los Blancos can line up against FC Barcelona.

GK – Thibaut Courtois

The Belgian put on an impeccable performance last week, and even though the scoreline shows that Madrid conceded twice, if it weren’t for him, they would have been staring at an embarrassing defeat.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois gestures a thumbs up following a victory against Celta Vigo. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

RB – Lucas Vazquez

Raphinha has had the best of him on each of the three occasions, and with each player’s form, it will be no surprise if the Brazilian emerged as the best again. Vazquez just needs to hold his ground and not leave unnecessary space behind.

CB – Aurelien Tchouameni

The last time he started in defense against Barcelona, Madrid conceded 5 in the Super Cup final. But since then, the Frenchman’s importance on this side has grown, and he has been a vital presence in the squad.

CB – Raul Asencio

No Rudiger? No problem – Asencio to the rescue! The Spaniard’s importance could be seen through the fact that Real Madrid conceded twice after he was subbed off, and he was at his best before that.

LB – Fran Garcia

The 25-year-old has shown progress defensively, even though there is still a lot to give. He will have to be at his best against an in-form Lamine and make sure to track his overlapping runs to perfection.

DM – Fede Valverde

It’s clearly visible that he hasn’t been at full fitness, but despite that, the Uruguayan has put in his 100% and put his body on the line for his team. Will be the shield at right-back whenever Vazquez makes an attacking run.

CM – Dani Ceballos

Ceballos put on the usual shift last week, recording 1 key pass and being accurate with 98% of his passes. He is responsible for controlling the tempo of the game, and against a high-flying Barcelona, a lot will be dependent on his shoulders.

CM: Jude Bellingham

Had an assist against Celta Vigo, taking his tally to 8 for the league season. He has a good record against the Blaugrana with 3 goals and an assist in 6 appearances. Plus, he can take some inspiration from the last time he played at this ground, scoring a brace and taking Real Madrid to victory.

CAM: Arda Guler

The youngster has surely confirmed his spot in the lineup until the end of the season following a string of great performances. Turned the game on its head in the CDR final and scored and assisted against Celta. This will be his first start against Barcelona, and he will look to create an impact.

ST: Vinicius Junior

In what has been an underwhelming season by his standards, the Brazilian would be eager to give someone to cheer for, for the Merengue fans, and step up on an occasion when it matters the most.

36 goals and 4 assists in 52 matches, not bad for a first season? Not at all, but with no major trophies in the bag, a majority of his performances have gone under the radar. The Frenchman will look to jump ahead in the Pichichi race and in the process, give Los Blancos a fighting chance of winning the La Liga title.