Preparations for tonight’s El Clásico are raising many questions and speculations, especially in light of recent developments between the two teams. The most notable of these events, without a doubt, was Barcelona’s exit from the Champions League semi-finals to Inter Milan, a loss that sparked widespread controversy, particularly regarding the performance of referee Szymon Marciniak.
As the highly anticipated match approaches, attention turns to the tactical choices of coaches Carlo Ancelotti and Hansi Flick. Both are expected to field the best possible lineups, given the high stakes in this match, which could bring the winner a significant step closer to clinching the La Liga title.
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In this context, Sport newspaper revealed that Flick has selected Eric Garcia to play at right-back, a remarkable move that could change the complexion of the match, as he will be the 24th player to face Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior. This decision is based on Garcia’s recent strong performances in this position, despite his difficult start to the season and his previous role within Flick’s plans.
Although Garcia began the season in apparent confusion, he managed to adapt to the German coach’s demands, playing in several positions — from center-back to midfield and now right-back, a position he will assume again in the Montjuïc Clásico.
Thus, the clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid takes on an added dimension, as the rivalry between Eric Garcia and Vinicius Junior returns to the forefront after years of simmering tensions. This stems from the Barcelona defender’s infamous comment at the Santiago Bernabéu during the 2021/22 season, when he told the Brazilian striker, “Next year, you’ll win the Ballon d’Or, the Ballon d’Or,” a sarcastic remark that became the subject of considerable controversy.
Although Vinicius didn’t win the award, he did claim the Champions League that season and repeated the feat the following season, confirming his status as a world-class player.
Flick’s decision to assign Eric Garcia to mark Vinicius comes at the expense of Ronald Araujo, who previously held that role. However, Araujo’s performance against Inter Milan diminished his chances of starting in El Clásico, making this highly anticipated defensive battle one of the main attractions of Sunday’s match.
