The eagerly anticipated El Clasico returns this Sunday, as Real Madrid and Barcelona clash in a prestigious friendly at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Both teams are in the midst of their pre-season preparations, and this encounter promises to offer a tantalizing preview of what’s to come in the 2024-25 season.
Real Madrid, the reigning Spanish and European champions, have had a mixed pre-season so far.
Their campaign began with a 1-0 defeat to AC Milan on Wednesday, a result that highlighted some of the challenges Carlo Ancelotti’s side might face as they integrate new signings and adjust to life without key departures.
The introduction of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to the squad has generated significant excitement, although Mbappe is not in the United States due to an extended break following Euro 2024.
Endrick, however, will make his El Clasico debut, and his performance will be closely watched.
The Brazilian prodigy is expected to lead the line alongside Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, who are set to join the squad for this match.
Despite the absence of several key players, including Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid will feature a strong lineup. Luka Modric, Arda Guler, and Antonio Rudiger are all expected to start, while Dani Ceballos remains part of the squad despite speculation about his future.
Barcelona’s pre-season has been slightly more promising, with their first friendly resulting in a 2-2 draw against Manchester City, which they eventually won on penalties.
New head coach Hansi Flick has already made a positive impression, and Barcelona will look to build on that momentum in this high-profile fixture.
The Catalan giants have been relatively quiet in the transfer market but made headlines with the acquisition of Pau Victor.
