Barcelona could replace injured winger with 23-year-old star against Real Madrid
A little over 24 hours remain before Barcelona take on Real Madrid in the final of the Spanish Super Cup. Both La Liga giants are eyeing their first major silverware of the season, making it a Clasico with much more serious implications.
Last year, Barcelona downed Carlo Ancelotti’s men with a colossal display in the competition to take home the trophy. It served not only as a reason to celebrate but a factor that turned the Catalans’ season around in many ways.
This year too, Barcelona are in need of the same. However, it is safe to say that Xavi has lost several members of the Super Cup-winning side from last season.
The right-wing question
Last season, it was Ousmane Dembele who started on Barcelona’s right wing on the big night against Real Madrid. With the Frenchman no longer at the club, Raphinha has taken over his place as a regular starter.
The Brazilian’s injury against Osasuna in the semifinal, however, has ruled him out of the grand finale. It leaves Xavi with a big question ahead of kickoff – who to trust with the start on the right wing.
As revealed in AS‘s recent report, Ferran Torres is best placed to take over the starting role on the right flank tomorrow night. He will join Robert Lewandowski, who will be the striker, with Joao Felix on the left wing.
Torres started on the left flank against Osasuna in the semi-finals and has generally been in good nick. And, the 23-year-old could be asked to move to the right wing tomorrow, ahead of Lamine Yamal.
Precaution with Yamal
Raphinha’s injury left Barcelona fans almost certain of Lamine Yamal earning the start against Real Madrid. After all, he was Xavi’s first-choice substitute after the Brazilian’s injury and even scored the team’s second goal on the night.
The youngster has the chance to become the youngest-ever goalscorer in El Clasico history if he finds the back of the net tomorrow.
However, he will likely be forced to chase the record through a cameo in the second period.
The management are exercising serious caution over Yamal’s minutes this season despite his high-quality performances as they do not wish for him to face burnout in the future. His long-term future is the priority.
