Cancelo could be Xavi’s tactical surprise in El Clásico
Barcelona welcome Real Madrid to town for Saturday’s huge clash, and the home manager is looking at his options to get the crucial edge.
Awaiting the evolution of the three players who were tested in Thursday’s Barcelona training session, namely Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Frenkie de Jong, Xavi is contemplating reinforcing the midfield to counter Real Madrid’s physical prowess through ball control. We’re counting down to the first Clásico of the season.
Is Cancelo the Clásico ace up Xavi’s sleeve?
In this regard, Cancelo might relinquish his position as the right-back to play further forward, typically yielding his place to Ronald Araújo in recent matches against Madrid, tasked with containing Vinicius.
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The potential starting lineup for Barcelona, if this inclination is confirmed, would consist of Ter Stegen in goal, a defensive line comprising Araújo marking danger man Vinicius, Christensen and Iñigo Martínez as central defenders, and Balde on the left.
In the midfield, assuming Romeu doesn’t feature, Gündogan and Gavi would anchor the midfield, with Fermín, who has been knocking on the door, playing further forward alongside Cancelo. The Portuguese wide-man would assume the role previously held by Alves or Sergi Roberto in past Clásicos to establish superiority in the midfield.
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In the attacking line, Joao Félix is a certainty alongside Ferran Torres, unless Lewandowski makes a full recovery.
Excitement is building...