Just one point. That is all FC Barcelona need to confirm their coronation as the champions of La Liga for the second consecutive season.
And, Hansi Flick & co. have the golden opportunity to do so against none other than their bitter rivals, Real Madrid, in the upcoming El Clasico on 10 May at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Frenkie de Jong or Gavi in midfield?
Leading up to the match on Sunday, Barcelona manager Flick is staring at a major selection in midfield, reports SPORT.
Indeed, the manager has a decision to make about who partners with Pedri in the middle of the park – Frenkie de Jong or Gavi.
De Jong has been a key figure in the starting line-up since Flick’s arrival at Barcelona. He has earned that role through his performances, not only because of his technical quality but also due to an increase in intensity that had sometimes been questioned in the past.
However, over the past two months, his presence has declined significantly. The main reason for this absence is the muscle injury he suffered in training on 26 February, which led to him missing a series of important games.
Gavi or De Jong in midfield for El Clasico? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
After missing nine matches, his return has been handled in an extremely cautious manner by Flick & co. In the last five games, he has played only 95 minutes, a limited involvement for a player of his influence.
Gavi has stepped up
Barcelona have not felt De Jong’s absence as strongly as expected, largely because it has coincided with the strong return of Gavi. In recent matches, the La Masia graduate has become indispensable for Flick.
He has taken his opportunity to show that his physical issues are behind him and that he is ready for major challenges, starting in five consecutive matches, all of which ended in victories.
As a result, De Jong’s place in the starting line-up against Real Madrid, which would normally be certain, is far from guaranteed for the upcoming match at Spotify Camp Nou.
The Dutch midfielder is fit to start, and the final decision rests with the coach, but at present Gavi appears to be the more likely option.
