The preparations at Valdebebas Sports City continue ahead of the fourth and final El Clásico of the season. Real Madrid’s players are training under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, in a busy week filled with sporting events, as they gear up for the much-anticipated clash with Barcelona at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on Sunday.
Ancelotti is facing a major setback as six crucial players are set to miss the iconic encounter. While the number may seem moderate, the quality and importance of these absentees cannot be underestimated. The list includes four regular starters, leaving the team’s defensive line significantly weakened.
The defense bears the brunt of the injury crisis, with Ferland Mendy, Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, and Éder Militao ruled out. These players have been vital in maintaining Real Madrid’s defensive solidity throughout the season. Ancelotti now has to rethink his tactical setup, especially since the replacements might not provide the same level of consistency.
Adding to the challenge are the absences of David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga. Although not considered first-choice starters recently, their versatility has often provided Ancelotti with critical tactical flexibility. With them unavailable, the coach’s options are further narrowed.
The defensive injuries are particularly worrying given Barcelona’s attacking prowess. Ancelotti will need to devise a new plan to counter the pace and creativity of players like Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal, who have been in fine form. The coach is likely to turn to Nacho Fernández and Jesús Vallejo to fill the void, but doubts remain regarding their ability to cope with the pressure of such a high-stakes game.
Midfield adjustments might also be on the cards, as the absence of Camavinga could prompt a reshuffle. Tchouameni’s role might change, while Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham could take on more defensive responsibilities to protect the makeshift backline.
The timing of the injuries could not be worse, especially after Real Madrid’s recent defeat to Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-finals. Ancelotti’s men looked mentally drained and physically outmatched in that fixture, raising concerns about their readiness for El Clásico.
Nonetheless, Ancelotti remains defiant. He has emphasized the importance of resilience and mental strength in the buildup to the game, urging his players to focus on the positives. The coach has pointed to the team’s ability to bounce back from adversity, as seen during the Copa del Rey final, where Real Madrid mounted a remarkable comeback despite an early error by Thibaut Courtois.
This season’s final El Clásico holds immense significance in the context of the La Liga title race. Barcelona currently holds the advantage, but Real Madrid is determined to close the gap. A victory at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium could reignite their hopes, while a defeat would all but end their aspirations.
Fans are anxiously awaiting updates on the squad selection, hoping for a miraculous recovery or two. However, Ancelotti’s cautious approach suggests that he would rather not take unnecessary risks with players’ fitness, especially with crucial fixtures still to come.
In the absence of key defenders, Real Madrid’s attacking unit will also need to step up. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo are expected to take on more creative duties, while Karim Benzema will be the focal point upfront. Ancelotti might also consider a more conservative approach, relying on quick counter-attacks rather than dominating possession.
The Montjuïc atmosphere is expected to be intense, with Barcelona fans eager to capitalize on Real Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities. Ancelotti’s challenge will be to shield his players from the noise and pressure while maintaining tactical discipline.
As the countdown to El Clásico continues, Real Madrid fans are rallying behind their team despite the injury crisis. The hope remains that Ancelotti’s experience and tactical nous can help navigate this daunting situation.
One thing is clear: the absence of six players, including four starters, will make this clash against Barcelona an uphill battle. But with the club’s history of overcoming adversity, the players on the pitch will know that a victory would be a defining moment in their campaign.
Only time will tell if Real Madrid can rise to the occasion despite the daunting challenges they face. For now, preparations continue as Ancelotti looks to make the most of his available resources in what promises to be a thrilling El Clásico encounter.
