Will Barcelona complicate an already tough week further, or are they set to summon the energy needed to take a significant step toward a 28th Spanish league title? That’s the big question ahead of the much-anticipated “el clasico” in La Liga…

Barça is reeling from a painful elimination by Inter in the semi-finals—a two-legged fixture where even scoring six goals by the Italian champions wasn’t enough for a ticket to the Munich final. However, a win today against Real Madrid could serve as the perfect antidote, as three points with just three rounds left would likely seal the title for them. The team led by Hansia Flick looks forward to today’s match (16:15 PM at Montjuic) with a four-point lead over Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.

– We have the energy to win the game – Flick commented when asked about the team’s fitness following 120 minutes of play in Milan on Tuesday.

Barça has bested their arch-rivals in all three encounters this season: winning the league match 4-0 in Madrid, the Super Cup final in Jeddah 5-2, and just two weeks ago, clinching the Copa del Rey trophy with a 3-2 victory in Seville.

– Every “el clasico” is vital, and this one holds significant stakes. Would I be content with a draw? Right now, the table isn’t our focus; we’re only thinking about taking the pitch to win. We aim to start strong, showing confidence because the Champions League elimination hasn’t shaken us. Our performances reflect our strength as a team – stated the German coach.

However, Gilles Cunde, Alejandro Balde, and Robert Lewandowski will not feature in the squad, although they have recovered.

– I don’t believe Balde and Lewandowski will start. They should see minutes in the second half – Flick indicated.

There’s no uncertainty regarding the goalkeeper, as Mark-Andre ter Stegen has recovered and played in the last round.

– He will be in goal. Vojceh Šcensni “We are pleased with his season performances,” the former Bayern coach summarized.

Flick understands that Real Madrid is arriving at Montjuic with everything to gain in their quest to defend their title and that victory is their only option…

– We are aware of how Real can exploit our weaknesses; having recently faced them in the Copa del Rey final. We must be ready for various challenges during the match, but there’s no reason for fear. The players thrive in such contests, and I can see the motivation in their eyes – added Flick.

In Madrid, the situation is quite different. Real Madrid is bracing for a rebuild, regardless of how the season concludes, and shifts will occur within the coaching staff. Carlo Ancelotti may be on his way out, possibly even tomorrow if they lose “el clasico,” with Xabi Alonso considered his likely successor.

The “Blancos” still have a shot at salvaging their year, but first, they need to eliminate Barça from the Catalonian scene.

– If the players heed my instructions and focus on key details, we will win – Ancelotti is optimistic.

Rodrigo returns to the Real Madrid lineup, but defensive dilemmas loom with the absence of Antonio Ridiger, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy, as well as long-term absentees Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal.

– Barça compels a goalkeeper to remain alert, but perfection is unattainable. Many elements in the game require our attention, especially maintaining a compact defense. I know we have opportunities, but we must take control – Ancelotti remarked.

Nonetheless, Real has not managed to assert itself against Barça this season.

– Both clubs face significant risks in this “el clasico.” Barça is currently leading the title race, but a win would significantly boost our chances – concluded Ancelotti.

Both Barça and Real are in excellent form in La Liga, with four consecutive victories apiece.

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