Defenders
Right back: Sergi Roberto
The young Spaniard has been put into an unfamiliar position after Enrique decided not to go into the transfer market to replace Dani Alves. Roberto and Aleix Vidal were the ones that the boss trusted, and it is fair to say that both of them have found it a rather tough initiation. That once again leaves questions to be asked about Enrique.
But now that this is what is at Barca’s disposal, Roberto cannot have any excuses. There is no doubt it will be tough for the youngster. Cristiano Ronaldo will be his direct opponent on the flank. Given the form that the Portuguese superstar is in, even the most experienced and seasoned of right-backs will have a tough game, let alone a midfielder being played out of position.
But Roberto’s job will be to pin Ronaldo and Real back. If he does do that, with the front three that Barca have got, they could exploit the chinks in Marcelo’s defensive game. Having said that, it is definitely easier said than actually putting into practice, especially against the superstar.
Centre-backs: Javier Mascherano and Gerard Pique
For Pique, as always, this is a game with an added edge, given his well-publicized spats with different Madrid players. He hasn’t kept quiet this time either, but sounded much more mellow, saying they had more to lose from this game than Real. “Real can afford to lose this one, we can’t”, he said. Barcelona cannot afford to lose this one, considering they are already six points behind Real, and only ahead of Sevilla on goal difference.
Samuel Umtiti is fit for the champions, but given that he is coming back from an injury, it would be a huge risk to put him straight back in the team for a game of this magnitude.
Mascherano is prone to lapses in concentration, but this is a role he has played to perfection over the years. The emphasis will be on his communication with Pique and Ter-Stegen. His passing will also be under the radar, as he does misplace a few passes in dangerous positions. If he does, Isco, Benzema and the Croatian midfield duo of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic will be waiting to pounce.
LB: Jordi Alba
He was classified as an injury doubt, but he has returned to training and should start ahead of Lucas Digne. The absence of Gareth Bale should give the Spaniard some relief, but Isco has been in splendid form for Real. Much like Roberto on the other side, it will be up to Alba to pin Real back in their own half. Neymar will stick to the left touchline, but Alba would do well to not expect too much help from the Brazilian superstar.
