According to El Larguero, coach Hansi Flick has decided to rely heavily on the same starting eleven that dismantled Athletic Club 5-0 in the semifinal.
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The plan, however, is not without small adjustments. Flick is expected to make just one change to that lineup, with Lamine Yamal coming in on the right wing in place of Roony Bardghji.
A different Barcelona
This next final comes in a very different context than the last Clásico between both teams.
On October 26 at the Santiago Bernabéu, Barcelona suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat in a match that exposed their limitations at the time.
That match was played in extremely difficult circumstances, as Barcelona were missing up to seven key players and Flick was not even present on the bench.
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The team came into the game very tense, both physically and mentally, and the result reflected that reality.
Fast forward to now, and the landscape has changed dramatically. Barcelona has experienced a clear transformation both in performance levels and in the availability of the squad.
Lamine Yamal will replace Roony Bardghji against Real Madrid. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
Injured players have returned and competition for places has increased. This evolution is also reflected in its domestic form, with the blaugrana enjoying an outstanding streak in La Liga.
Since that defeat at the Bernabéu, Barcelona have achieved nine league victories, establishing themselves comfortably at the top and restoring confidence within the team.
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No experiments
Despite these advances, Flick has chosen not to conduct unnecessary experiments.
The defensive line will have Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Eric García and Alejandro Balde, a back four that has shown balance between solidity and offensive support.
In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will act as a double pivot, offering control, creativity and composure.
In front of them, Raphinha is expected to take on the role of attacking midfielder, linking play and pressing high up.
On the wing, Marcus Rashford and Yamal will provide pace and direct threat, while Ferran Torres will lead the line as a central striker.