Real Madrid face possession and positional questions ahead of Clásico

Real Madrid head into the Clásico against Barcelona with several tactical questions still open. The pre-match analysis focuses in particular on possession, midfield roles and the organisation of the right flank. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 21:00, with the Madrid side arriving after a start to the season that brought more doubts than certainties, despite some recent signs of improvement.

Real Madrid have had more than 60% possession in the matches being discussed, but reaching that level against Barcelona could prove difficult. The question is whether the team can maintain its progress without having more of the ball than its opponent, a scenario described as likely against the “Flick Team”.

The prospect of a Clásico without Vinicius is another part of the build-up. The analysis argues that his absence may make Real Madrid a better team, while also stressing that the side still needs to show its improvement in a match where it may not control possession.

The matches against Sevilla and Leipzig brought signs of progress for Real Madrid, including spells of play among the best of its season. The question is whether that development can carry over against Barcelona in a game where possession may not favour José Mourinho’s team.

In midfield, Arda Güler has played this season in an area that allows him to become more involved in Real Madrid’s game: the second line of the midfield. The analysis expects that arrangement to be used against Barcelona too, unless Mourinho opts for an extremely defensive plan.

The right flank presents another decision to watch. Dumfries is identified as the expected Real Madrid right-back. Fede Valverde could play ahead of him on the same side rather than in midfield, where his effectiveness is questioned. These are possibilities outlined before kick-off, however; the final shape of the flank and Real Madrid’s response to Barcelona’s possession remain points to follow.

Before the match, Mourinho said he wants his players to receive “nothing more than credit” when they perform well, while criticism should fall on the coach when they perform “less well”. For Real Madrid, the Clásico will test whether its recent progress can hold when it does not control the ball, and whether the proposed positional choices can meet the challenge posed by Barcelona.