Barcelona midfielder risks suspension against Real Sociedad with a booking vs Real Madrid

Barcelona will face their biggest challenge of the season thus far as they get set to take on arch-rivals Real Madrid in El Clasico later today at the Montjuic Stadium.

With just a point separating them from the league leaders, a victory today could see the Blaugrana finish Matchday 11 at the top spot.

But things will not get easier for Xavi Hernandez & co. as they will have another stern test waiting after the Clasico, with an away game against Real Sociedad coming up next.

Gavi at the risk of suspension

While all the focus will be on today’s El Clasico, Barcelona will need to be mindful of what lies next, especially considering the number of injury-enforced absentees they have had.

As such, Gavi will need to be a tad bit extra careful as he is just one yellow card away from being suspended for the match against Real Sociedad.

Indeed, the 19-year-old midfield sensation, who is already playing his ninth El Clasico, is on four yellow cards in La Liga this term.

And another booking today afternoon against Real Madrid would mean that the La Masia graduate will have to sit out the match against Sociedad, which will come as a blow for Barça.

Working on disciplinary issues

Gavi has earned a reputation for his passion and aggressive style on the pitch, but it also lands him in iffy situations at times with regard to his disciplinary record.

The 19-year-old already missed the Catalans’ last game against Shakhtar Donetsk due to suspension after he was sent off in their previous UCL match against Porto.

Gavi admitted that it is one aspect of his game that needs to be improved, and with a trip to San Sebastian coming up next week, Xavi & co. will want the young midfielder to be available for the game.