Real Madrid vs Barcelona: Probable Lineups for an Explosive El Clasico

The Santiago Bernabéu is set to host one of football’s most electrifying fixtures this Sunday — the first El Clasico of the 2025–2026 season. Real Madrid and FC Barcelona will clash in the 10th round of La Liga, with kickoff scheduled for 4:15 PM (CET) live on beIN Sports 1.

League leaders Real Madrid, currently on 24 points, welcome their Catalan rivals who trail just two points behind. The stakes could not be higher. Beyond three points, this match carries the weight of pride, revenge, and early control in the title race.

Madrid enter the game with memories still raw from last season’s humiliation — four defeats in four meetings against Barcelona across all competitions. For new head coach Xabi Alonso, this isn’t just about tactics; it’s about restoring the club’s pride and proving that his project has real substance.

Under Alonso, Madrid have looked sharper, more disciplined, and tactically flexible. The Basque coach is crafting a side that blends the old-school Madrid intensity with modern tactical precision. Yet, his biggest challenge lies in deciding whether to tighten the midfield for control or unleash more attacking speed to unsettle Barcelona.

Alonso’s current dilemma centers on Eduardo Camavinga and Mastantuono. Should he start Camavinga to dominate possession and calm the tempo, or field Mastantuono to inject directness and chaos in attack? It’s a question that could decide the rhythm of the entire game.

On the defensive front, the timing of key returns offers Alonso both relief and headaches. Dean Huijsen is expected to start alongside Éder Militão in central defense, with Thibaut Courtois — who has been in commanding form — between the posts. Fede Valverde may be deployed at right back once again, providing balance and defensive stamina against the explosive Marcus Rashford.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal are both back from injury but are not expected to start. Alonso reportedly wants to ease them back into full competition, preferring Valverde’s work rate to contain Barcelona’s wingers early on before possibly introducing the veterans later in the game.

In midfield, a powerhouse combination is likely: Aurélien Tchouaméni for defensive stability, Eduardo Camavinga for transitional play, Jude Bellingham for vertical threat, and Arda Güler for creativity. It’s a mix of energy, skill, and intelligence — exactly what’s needed to counter Barça’s fluid style.

Up front, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé are set to lead the line. Their chemistry has been steadily improving, and their pace will be crucial in punishing any high defensive line from Barcelona. Expect Madrid to look for quick, surgical transitions — the kind that can turn defense into attack in seconds.

Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive confident and dangerous. Xavi Hernández’s team will feature Wojciech Szczesny in goal, with a back four of Jules Koundé, Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, and Alejandro Baldé. The midfield trio of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Fermín López offers control and creativity, while the forward line — Lamine Yamal, Marcus Rashford, and Ferran Torres — promises relentless attacking movement.

Everything points to a fiery encounter. Real Madrid are desperate to end their losing streak, while Barcelona want to confirm their dominance once again. The Bernabéu will be a cauldron — not just of noise, but of emotion, revenge, and ambition.

Probable Lineups:
Real Madrid: Courtois – Valverde, Militão, Huijsen, Carreras – Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham, Güler – Vinicius Junior, Mbappé
FC Barcelona: Szczesny – Koundé, Eric García, Cubarsí, Baldé – De Jong, Pedri, Fermín – Lamine Yamal, Rashford, Ferran Torres

This isn’t just another league match. It’s a clash of philosophies, pride, and power. The winner won’t just take three points — they’ll take control of the narrative in Spanish football’s fiercest rivalry.