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With the La Liga title now within touching distance, Barcelona are preparing for the biggest match of their domestic season, knowing that even a draw against Real Madrid could be enough to crown them champions.
However, despite the positive atmosphere surrounding the club, the major concern that continues to dominate discussions ahead of El Clasico is the absence of Lamine Yamal.
The teenage sensation’s injury has forced Hansi Flick into making important decisions at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Replacing a player of his quality and unpredictability is never straightforward, especially in a match of this magnitude, and the Barcelona coach is currently weighing up several different solutions for the right wing role.
The natural option
The most natural replacement positionally is Roony Bardghji. Flick has already trusted the young Swedish winger in recent matches against Getafe and Osasuna.
However, while the talent is evident, the youngster has looked slightly uncomfortable during those appearances and has not yet fully adapted to the demands of Barcelona’s attacking system.
Even so, there could still be tactical reasons for using him in El Clasico, as Real Madrid are expected to have issues on their left side due to injury problems and defensive absences, potentially leaving spaces Barcelona could exploit with pace and direct running down that flank.
Rashford’s case
Then there is Marcus Rashford, arguably the most gifted attacking option available to Flick in pure footballing terms.
Rashford has made a strong case for himself. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
The English forward brings experience, explosiveness and individual quality capable of deciding major matches.
Although Flick has rarely used him on the right wing this season, the recent signs have been encouraging.
In the last two matches in that position, Rashford scored against Getafe and followed it up with an important assist against Osasuna.
Raphinha can play there too
The third option is Raphinha, whose importance to Barcelona goes far beyond goals and assists.
The Brazilian’s work rate, pressing and tactical discipline make him one of the coach’s most trusted players.
While his preferred role is usually on the left side, Flick has already used him on the right earlier this season whenever Lamine was unavailable.
If Flick decides to use Raphinha on the right, it will be interesting to see who takes up the position on the opposite wing.
