As the LaLiga title race nears its climax, all eyes are on Sunday’s El Clasico — a match that could determine the fate of the championship. League leaders Barcelona, with a four-point advantage over second-placed Real Madrid, are looking to put their Champions League disappointment behind them as they prepare for the showdown at home.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick confirmed his side has moved past the pain of their 4-3 semi-final defeat to Inter Milan, stressing the unity and determination within the squad.
“We’re doing well. After the defeat in Milan, everyone knows it’s not easy… but we’re doing things right,” Flick said. “El Clasico is important — we have to show confidence and how well we can play.”
With four games left in the campaign, a win would leave Barca just one victory away from their 28th LaLiga crown. However, questions linger over the team’s defensive fragility, having conceded 10 goals in their last four outings. Despite that, Flick remains firm in his tactical approach and praised his backline’s adaptation.
“When we started, I was clear about the philosophy… The team has adapted well and improved,” Flick stated, highlighting defender Inigo Martinez’s leadership and development. “He’s a fighter. A great leader.”
Barcelona will be without Robert Lewandowski and Alejandro Balde in the starting XI, though Flick hinted they may feature off the bench. “Maybe they will get minutes in the second half,” he said.
On the other side, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti emphasized the high stakes of Sunday’s encounter, acknowledging that his team must deliver a “complete game” to keep their title hopes alive.
“With Barcelona, you have to manage everything well — defend, attack, control possession. It’s a game where everything is at stake,” Ancelotti said. “To win, we must do things right across the board.”
Despite trailing by four points with four matches to go, Ancelotti remains confident. “It’s not difficult to motivate the players — they know how important this match is,” he noted.
Amid speculation surrounding his future and the rising profile of former Madrid player Xabi Alonso, Ancelotti reiterated his deep bond with the club: “The honeymoon with Madrid is going to be until the last day of my life.”
Real Madrid have fallen short in their past three meetings with Barcelona this season, including a Copa del Rey final defeat. Yet, Ancelotti insists that this has still been a strong campaign. “It’s been a good league and a good season,” he said. “If we win, the title race is still alive.”
As both sides prepare for the final El Clasico of the season, anticipation builds for a match that promises passion, intensity, and potentially, a pivotal moment in the LaLiga title race.
(Inputs from REUTERS and ANN)
