The football world turns its eyes once again to the eternal battle — Barcelona vs Real Madrid — as Matchweek 10 of the 2025-26 La Liga season delivers its most anticipated fixture.
With just two points separating the rivals at the top of the table, this encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu could reshape the title race before the halfway mark of the campaign.
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona enter the clash in resurgent form, playing with renewed energy and tactical sharpness, while Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid continue to set the pace with consistency and depth.
Both sides come into El Clasico after midweek Champions League victories, but fitness concerns and squad rotation will play a major role in how the lineups take shape.
The predicted XI for Barcelona vs Real Madrid
For Barcelona vs Real Madrid, Flick is expected to stick to his preferred 4-3-3 system, emphasizing width and quick transitions.
With Robert Lewandowski ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Ferran Torres could lead the line once more, flanked by Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford — a front three full of speed, flair, and unpredictability.
In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong will anchor the rhythm, with Fermin López likely getting the nod for his pressing and late runs into the box.
The defensive unit may see Ronald Araújo and Pau Cubarsí as the central duo, supported by Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé on the flanks.
Between the posts, with Marc-André ter Stegen still sidelined, Wojciech Szczesny remains the first choice after a steady run of games since joining from Juventus.
Predicted Barcelona XI:
Szczesny; Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, Balde; Pedri, De Jong, Fermin; Yamal, Rashford, Ferran Torres
Predicted Real Madrid XI:
Courtois; Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouameni, Guler; Bellingham, Vinicius, Mastantuono; Mbappe
Key absences and returning stars
The biggest talking point ahead of Barcelona vs Real Madrid is the fitness of several crucial players.
Barcelona’s Lewandowski, Gavi, Ter Stegen, and Dani Olmo are confirmed absentees, while Raphinha remains a major doubt.
On the other side, Real Madrid continue to deal with defensive setbacks, with Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy all missing out.
The potential return of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal provides a timely boost for Madrid, though Xabi Alonso might be cautious about rushing them back into the starting lineup.
For Barcelona, the spotlight falls on Lamine Yamal, who has emerged as one of Europe’s brightest young stars, and on Pedri, whose form will be pivotal in dictating the tempo in midfield.
These absences and comebacks will heavily influence how both coaches approach their tactical plans for Barcelona vs Real Madrid.
Flick’s tactical blueprint for Barcelona vs Real Madrid
Flick’s approach to Barcelona vs Real Madrid is expected to blend patience with precision.
The German manager has prioritized compact defensive lines and fast vertical play in transitions — particularly through the flanks where Rashford and Yamal thrive.
With Real Madrid’s backline weakened by injuries, exploiting space behind the full-backs could be Barcelona’s main avenue to goal.
Flick has also emphasized the psychological preparation of his squad.
In recent weeks, his staff introduced new recovery and breathing techniques to optimize players’ focus and sleep — a sign of the growing attention to detail inside the Barcelona camp.
Read also: Barcelona injury and suspension list vs Real Madrid in La Liga 2025-26
Alonso, meanwhile, will rely on his midfield dominance, with Tchouameni and Bellingham orchestrating the game’s flow.
The battle between Pedri and Bellingham promises to be one of the match’s defining duels — a clash between two of Europe’s most elegant creators.
Ultimately, Barcelona vs Real Madrid is more than just a matchweek fixture; it’s a clash of philosophies, generations, and ambitions — a night where every touch could define the course of La Liga 2025-26.
