Former Barcelona defender explains why Flick’s side have the edge over Real Madrid: ‘Not a normal match’

Former Barcelona defender explains why Flick’s side have the edge over Real Madrid: ‘Not a normal match’ Former Barcelona left-back Sergi Barjuan believes Hansi Flick’s side have the advantage over Real Madrid ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico at Spotify Camp Nou, pointing to their recent form, fitness and tactical structure as reasons to favour the Catalans.  However, Barjuan has also warned that the rivalry rarely follows ordinary footballing logic, with Real Madrid arriving after a strong Champions League result and renewed confidence ahead of one of the season’s biggest fixtures. Barjuan also expressed frustration with the growing off-field tension surrounding the Clasico , arguing that discussions in boardrooms and the media have threatened to overshadow the contest itself.  Sergi Barjuan believes Barcelona have the edge over Real Madrid Barjuan expects a closely contested match but sees Barcelona as the stronger side based on their current performances.  The former defender acknowledged Madrid’s recent progress while suggesting that Flick’s team have shown greater consistency in several important areas. “Barça are in very good form. The statistics speak for themselves. But we’re talking about a Clasico, and a Clasico isn’t a normal match.  “Real Madrid are coming off the back of a good win in the Champions League and have been strengthened, but in terms of structure, fitness and results, I see Barça as the better side.” Barjuan criticises off-field Clasico tensions Sergi Barjuan has backed Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Beyond his prediction, Barjuan lamented the extent to which the build-up has focused on disputes away from the pitch.  He believes the players should determine the narrative through their performances rather than become secondary figures in a wider exchange between the clubs. “Honestly, it would be great if the talk were solely about football and the spectacle. The players should do their talking on the pitch,” he said. Barjuan subsequently pointed to disagreements over refereeing decisions and accused those involved of being selective about which incidents receive attention.  He also referenced Jose Mourinho, suggesting that people involved in football naturally defend their own interests. “Everyone has the right to express their opinion and judge as they see fit. Barça are speaking on the pitch. And that’s where you see the differences between the two teams.  “There have been refereeing controversies and they’ve tried to sweep them under the carpet. They don’t see the footage when they don’t want to see it. And vice versa.  Barcelona lost to PSG but are still favourites to beat Real Madrid. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images) “We know Mourinho well enough; everyone looks out for their own interests. I know him personally and I know what he’s made of,” he added. Cristian Tello praises Xavi Espart after PSG performance Meanwhile former Barcelona winger Cristian Tello is also anticipating the Clasico, predicting an open contest while making no secret of his preference for a Barcelona victory. “I’m really looking forward to watching the Clasico. It’ll be a very open game; I hope Barça come out on top,” he said. The former Barcelona forward, who announced his retirement at the start of September , also singled out Xavi Espart for praise following the teenager’s performance against PSG.  The young defender’s display has strengthened the positive attention surrounding Barcelona’s academy graduates and their opportunities under Flick. “I’m really pleased to see so many young players in Barça’s first team. It speaks volumes about the club and its youth academy, and the work being done at grassroots level.  “Xavi Espart put in a truly brilliant performance against PSG. The fact that he’s been given the opportunity and is performing at that level is great news, ” he concluded. Source: SPORT