Barcelona manager to repeat PSG defence against Real Madrid in El Clasico – report

Barcelona manager to repeat PSG defence against Real Madrid in El Clasico – report Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly preparing to field the same defensive line that started against Paris Saint-Germain when the Catalans host Real Madrid in El Clasico on Sunday.  According to journalist Alfredo Martinez , Xavi Espart will start at right-back, Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martin will partner in central defence, and Joao Cancelo is expected to feature on the left. The decision comes at a difficult moment for Barcelona, who suffered their first defeat of the season against PSG, losing 4-2 at the Parc des Princes.  With several defenders unavailable, Flick has limited room to make changes as he prepares his team for one of the biggest matches of the campaign.  Defensive injuries force Barcelona into familiar setup Notably, Jules Kounde is set to miss El Clasico after failing to recover from the left ankle sprain he sustained against Real Betis.  His absence adds to Flick’s problems, with Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen also unavailable because of injuries.  Xavi Espart will start against Real Madrid. (Picture credit: X/@FCBarcelona) The defensive situation leaves the Barcelona coach relying on the same back four that faced PSG.  Espart is therefore in line for another opportunity on the right after making a positive impression in Paris.  The young defender even scored Barcelona’s opening goal against PSG, offering an attacking contribution during an otherwise disappointing night for the Catalans. Meanwhile, Cubarsi and Martin are expected to continue as the central defensive partnership, with Martin having recovered from the knock that had raised concerns about his availability.  Cancelo is the leading option at left-back, although Barcelona will need a stronger collective defensive performance after conceding four goals in their previous European outing. Barcelona must respond after PSG defeat Hansi Flick will repeat his PSG defence against Real Madrid. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) The upcoming Clasico offers Barcelona an immediate chance to respond to their first setback of the season.  Maintaining the same defence could provide continuity, but the unit will need to show greater organisation and concentration against Real Madrid’s attacking threats. Cancelo’s performance will be particularly important as Barcelona look to balance their attacking approach with defensive responsibility.  Espart will also face a demanding test against Real Madrid’s wide players, while Cubarsi and Martin must remain composed under pressure. Flick’s options are restricted by injuries, but the challenge is for Barcelona to make their makeshift backline deliver a more convincing display than it managed in Paris.