El Clasico Predicted Lineups and Key Absences Ahead of Crucial Tie

This season`s final El Clasico fixture holds considerable importance, with only four points separating Barcelona and Real Madrid as the La Liga title race nears its conclusion with just four matches remaining.

Barcelona enters the match favored, largely due to their dominant record against Real Madrid this season, having secured three victories and boasting a significant 12-4 aggregate score advantage. However, their recent dramatic 7-6 aggregate defeat to Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League earlier in the week raises questions about their recovery and readiness for such a high-stakes encounter.

Adding complexity to the situation is the fact that neither team will be at full strength. Real Madrid will be without Antonio Rudiger, who is serving a six-match ban following an incident with the referee at the end of the Copa del Rey final. Barcelona, meanwhile, will not have a fully fit Robert Lewandowski, returning from a short-term injury, and Alejandro Balde is also in a similar state.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Saturday, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the fitness of his squad. Regarding some players, he commented, “As starters, I don`t think the moment is right for them.” He highlighted positive performances from others, stating, “Ferran [Torres] in attack and Gerard [Martin] at left-back are doing very good. When you see Gerard, how he`s playing in a semifinal of the Champions League, it`s really great. [Marc] Casado is also available.” Flick also emphasized the need for caution, adding, “But we have to take care. We have three more league matches after Madrid. Tomorrow is more for them to come on in the second half.”

This scenario presents both managers with significant tactical considerations, particularly with the La Liga championship at stake.

Below are the predicted starting elevens for this final Clasico of the season, as reported: