Barça News

Official: Barcelona starting lineup against Real Madrid

Published

5 years ago

12/01/2022

Barcelona and Real Madrid have the chance to land the first silverware of the season as they get ready to battle it out in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. While the Madrid lineup was released a while ago, the Blaugranas have just come out with their starting XI, featuring several surprises.

First of all, Ronald Araujo seems to have magically recovered from a hand surgery he had a few days ago and is immediately pushed on to the green. He partners Gerard Pique in central defence. Marc-Andre ter Stegen will hold the fort down from the six-yard box, hoping to mirror his pre-2019 El Clasico performances.

The right-back spot was probably the most unpredictable one for the night, with reports suggesting that Araujo would occupy it. However, it’s Dani Alves who takes up that spot, starting his third game in a week. Unsurprisingly, Jordi Alba retains his left-back position.

Despite Pedri’s return from injury and COVID-19, he starts from the bench. Frenkie de Jong, however, got the medical clearance yesterday and immediately returns to the starting XI. Sergio Busquets continues as the 6, and the third spot is occupied by 17-year-old Gavi.

The biggest shock is the inclusion of Ferran Torres, who probably starts on the left. Ousmane Dembele continues on the right, while Mr. two goals in two games Luuk de Jong spearheads the offensive trident.