Ousmane Dembele or Gavi, the big doubt for the Clasico

Ousmane Dembele or Gavi, the big doubt for the Clasico

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The French winger is in good form but Gavi has been reliable for Xavi

Barcelona have done their homework against Galatasaray and are now focused on the clash with Real Madrid in the Clasico. After surviving ‘hell’ Sunday’s game is the focus, although some consider it decaffeinated given the big gap between the sides in the table. Still, it’s a good chance for Barcelona to send a message and test the project led by Xavi Hernandez to see if they are ready to face the best teams in the country and the continent.

The coach will obviously pick his strongest XI and it’s more or less set for the big games. After a few months in charge, Xavi knows what he wants to do. 

Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal, with Dani Alves and Jordi Alba on the flanks. Even though he’s had some physical issues, Gerard Pique will not miss out and Ronald Araujo will partner him. The only way Eric Garcia will play is if Xavi wants to use Araujo at right-back against Vinicius Junior, who caused Alves a headache. 

Sergio Busquets, Pedri, Ferran Torres and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will make up the other parts of the team, leaving just two positions left to decide.

There are three players who could fill the role. Gavi, Frenkie de Jong and Ousmane Dembele. Gavi has not done that well as a false winger in the last few times he’s been tried there, or that badly, but he’s better as a midfielder. That would leave Frenkie out, but the No 21 has taken a step forward against Napoli and Galatasaray. It’s a tough decision for Xavi and likely between Gavi and Dembele.

Barcelona also have more depth now, with Memphis Depay, Adama Traore, Luuk de Jong, Nico Gonzalez and Martin Braithwaite potentially useful from the bench. And if Dembele is the one to drop out, he could also make an impact. He’s had some great sub performances from there.

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