Barcelona manager has already finalised key players for his starting XI for El Clasico

A report from SPORT suggests that Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has already outlined most of his plans for the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid.

The outlet mentions that following the dominant win over Olympiacos , the manager appears to have a clear idea of which players will form the core of his starting side.

The report mentions that four names – Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, Pedri , and Lamine Yamal – are certain to start at the Bernabeu.

If nothing unexpected happens, Kounde is expected to slot in at right-back, while Balde will feature on the opposite flank.

Pedri is set to take charge of the midfield, dictating the rhythm of the game, whereas Yamal , a threat for Real Madrid , will hold his usual spot on the right wing, where he’s been a constant attacking threat.

In goal, Wojciech Szczesny ’s position is said to be untouchable. However, some areas of the pitch still leave Flick with decisions to make.

Hansi Flick has locked in key players for El Clasico. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Ronald Araujo , who started on the bench against Olympiacos, is one of the players under review. Flick is reportedly thinking about bringing him back into the line-up for the Clasico, although that choice is not yet final.

The forward line also raises questions. Ferran Torres was part of the Champions League squad but did not play, suggesting that he may not yet be fully fit.

If Flick chooses not to start Ferran, Marcus Rashford could be deployed as the central striker, with Fermin Lopez operating from the left and Yamal maintaining his position on the right.

This potential setup could push Frenkie de Jong slightly forward, leaving Marc Casado as the defensive anchor.

The Olympiacos match provided a few clues about Flick’s priorities. Several key players were given brief rests, ensuring they are in peak condition for the Bernabeu trip.

Barcelona head into this crucial fixture eager to make a statement after an uneven start to the campaign and Flick seems ready to rely on his trusted core to deliver.