Real Madrid and FC Barcelona will face off next Sunday as part of La Liga’s 35th matchday. For this high-stakes Clasico, Carlo Ancelotti and his players could take advantage of a weakness in the Catalan team.
The fourth and final Clasico of the season will be played next Sunday, May 11. After three wins in as many games against Real Madrid this season, Barça will aim to seal the deal next Sunday to secure the Spanish league title once and for all. Meanwhile, at the White House (Real Madrid), who trail by four points, they will seek revenge by grabbing all three points in hopes of a slip-up by the Catalans in the last three matchdays to snatch the title. With just days left before this electrifying showdown, Carlo Ancelotti and his squad are preparing to exploit Barça’s vulnerabilities.
Ronald Araujo: The True Weak Link in Barça’s Defense
Barça’s Weak Point Detected After Inter: “If He Plays Sunday, Real Will Win”
Speaking of Barcelona’s weakness, the defense is clearly a concern, having conceded many goals this season. While the attack is firing on all cylinders thanks to an unstoppable Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, the Catalan defense is far from solid. In the two-legged Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan, they conceded seven goals. Despite a system designed to press high up the pitch and trouble opposing attackers, Barça have shown plenty of shortcomings. Frequently guilty of individual errors, Hansi Flick’s side once again confirmed this narrative on Tuesday night.
READ: Endrick’s father stirs up Madrid – find out why everyone’s talking (VIDEO)
While several players were criticized for their defensive performances against Inter Milan, Ronald Araujo was particularly targeted. Responsible for both goals conceded by Barça late in the game and in extra time, the Uruguayan defender has come under heavy criticism from the Catalan press. “I’m very strong in duels; I should have done better on the third goal,” admitted the captain against Inter after the match.
A few days before the Clasico against Real Madrid, many believe Araujo’s presence on Sunday would be very risky for the Catalans. Despite his overall qualities, the Uruguayan struggles in high-stakes matches, and for many Barcelona fans, he should not play next Sunday.
Inigo Martinez Returning Against Real Madrid?
Barça’s Weak Point Detected After Inter: “If He Plays Sunday, Real Will Win”
Given the situation, Hansi Flick is hoping Iñigo Martinez will be fully fit to partner Pau Cubarsí. Martinez, who was subbed off in the second half due to muscle discomfort, has already experienced the Clasico and is reportedly doing well. By Sunday, if he no longer feels pain, he is expected to return to Barça’s starting lineup in place of Ronald Araujo.
But regardless, if Real Madrid’s attackers show up in top form next Sunday, Barça could really suffer. Already burdened by the fatigue accumulated in recent days, the Catalans will be less fresh than Los Blancos, who have enjoyed several days of rest. On Sunday at Montjuïc, Barça will need to be solid, compact, and especially ready to capitalize on any gap left in the Catalan defense to achieve a good result.