Real Madrid vs Barcelona Predicted line-ups and latest news - October 26, 2024
The first El Clasico of the 2024/25 season is set for today, with Real Madrid hosting Barcelona.
Real Madrid has had a solid start to the season, remaining undefeated in La Liga, yet three draws have kept them from topping the table. In contrast, Barcelona, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, has enjoyed a more successful campaign, with just one loss and nine victories in their first ten La Liga matches.
With only three points separating the two, a victory for Madrid would draw them level with the Catalan side, while a win for Barça could prove pivotal in the title race.
Both teams face lineup challenges due to injuries. Real Madrid’s main concerns include the absence of Thibaut Courtois, who will once again be replaced by Andriy Lunin, and the sidelining of Dani Carvajal. With David Alaba’s ongoing injury, only Lucas Vázquez remains an option at right-back. Additionally, Rodrygo, who was subbed off in the last match, will miss today’s encounter.
Barcelona’s injury list is longer. They too are without their primary goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, with Iñaki Peña or Wojciech Szczesny likely to step in. Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, and Marc Bernal are still in recovery, while Ferran Torres, who sustained an injury earlier this month, is doubtful. Eric García’s participation also remains unlikely.
Ahead of the match, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed his anticipation for the latest chapter in this iconic rivalry.
“The team is strong, motivated. El Clasico is competitive, intense, and a spectacle. We want to perform well in front of our fans. Barcelona has a very clear idea of their game and they play well. They’re a bold team. We need to prepare thoroughly and try to play at our best,” Ancelotti told Diario AS.
The Italian coach added he has some “aces up his sleeve,” saying,
“I have something in mind, but I think it’s better not to reveal it today. Watch tomorrow, and you’ll see if it works or not.”
Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, shared his thoughts on potential adjustments to their high-line defense that Madrid might exploit with Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé.
“We have our own approach and ideas; we used them against Bayern and realized where we need to improve. We adapt to each game, and now it’s time to adapt once again. Against Real, all players are prepared. I trust my players because they manage well—with and without the ball. We’ve demonstrated that, and we’ll continue to do so,” he told Mundo Deportivo.
Flick refrained from revealing lineup details, leaving uncertainty about whether Fermín López will start or if Dani Olmo will return.
“I haven’t decided if he [Fermín López] will start. But he contributed to three goals, which is exactly what we expect from him. We’re very pleased he’s back from injury, and the fact that he played so well is fantastic.”
The coaches are certain to field their strongest players. Real Madrid, who have won the last four official El Clasico clashes, will aim to extend that streak and pull level with Barcelona on points. Flick, on the other hand, will be eager to claim his first El Clasico win and open a six-point lead over Los Blancos.
Here are the expected lineups based on previous coaching decisions.
Predicted Real Madrid line-up
Lunin – Mendy, Rüdiger, Militão, Vázquez – Camavinga, Tchouaméni, Valverde – Bellingham – Vinícius Jr., Mbappé
Predicted Barcelona line-up
Peña – Balde, Martínez, Cubarsi, Koundé – Pedri, Casado – Raphinha, López, Yamal – Lewandowski
Kickoff is set for 21:00 CET today. Dailysports has prepared a viewing guide for where you can catch the match in your country.
Liam Garcia
Dailysports's expert
