Real Madrid’s Lineup Decisions and Controversies Ahead of El Clasico

For the much-anticipated El Clasico clash against Barcelona on Saturday, Real Madrid is reportedly making some intriguing lineup decisions. Notably, it appears that Luka Modric will be relegated to the bench, missing out on the opportunity to start in one of football’s most significant derbies. Another absence from the starting lineup is expected to be Eduardo Camavinga.

In Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical scheme, Jude Bellingham is poised to once again take the helm, playing a pivotal role as part of the diamond formation. He will be positioned behind the attacking duo of Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr, serving as Real Madrid’s primary creative force.

Vinicius Jr, the Brazilian forward, heads to Catalonia amid a recent controversy involving allegations of racial abuse. Barcelona board member Miguel Camps dismissed his claims of abuse and made a provocative statement, saying he would “slap” the Madrid player for showboating in a now-deleted social media post.

In the midfield, the trio of Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, and Toni Kroos is expected to complete the setup, while Dani Ceballos is sidelined due to injury, along with Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao.

As for Barcelona, there is a glimmer of hope regarding the return of Robert Lewandowski from an ankle injury, although they will be without the services of Pedri, Sergi Roberto, and Jules Kounde.

The hosts face uncertainties regarding the availability of Raphinha and Frenkie de Jong, with the former’s potential absence potentially providing an opportunity for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to make his first Clasico start.