Hansi Flick to repeat PSG defensive lineup for El Clasico as star defender misses out
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has opted to keep his backline unchanged from the match against Paris Saint-Germain. Despite already being out for three to four weeks due to a rectus femoris injury to his right thigh, the club had been hopeful that Jules Kounde may overcome his sprained left ankle. However, it looks like the centre-back won’t be available for Sunday’s match, so Flick has opted to stick with Xavi Espart at RB, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin in defence and Joao Cancelo.
Xavi Espart shines in a standout performance
Although losing two senior defenders before the most important match of the season should cause concern, Espart provided the Culers with plenty of optimism during the match in Paris. Espart was handed the task of marking one of the toughest players in the world, PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the La Masia academy graduate performed brilliantly.
Espart nullified Kvaratskhelia completely during his 74 minutes on the pitch. He won two of his three duels and was extremely well disciplined. Espart also showed great quality in the build-up phase. He completed 42/45 passes (93%) and scored the 55th-minute equaliser.
The spine of Barcelona’s defence was solid with Espart on the pitch. However, when the Spanish youngster was replaced by Alejandro Balde in the 74th minute, the full-backs became exposed and PSG managed to score twice in the final ten minutes.
Flick shows experience by keeping the same back four
By opting to keep the same defence, Hansi Flick shows experience. Putting Kounde who isn’t fully fit into such a high-intensity game could lead to him suffering a long term injury. However, Espart proved he can handle the pressure of such a big game.
The position of the full-backs will also benefit Barcelona. Real Madrid are missing Vinicius Junior due to his 4-match suspension. This means they simply don’t have the typical threat on the left-hand side. His calmness on the ball and success against Kvaratskhelia proves he will be able to cope with Real Madrid’s forwards.
Cancelo provides great experience on the left-hand side whilst Cubarsi and Martin form a solid partnership in the centre of defence. This gives Barcelona a great chance to recover from their disappointment on Tuesday and ensure they remain at the top of La Liga.
