Would FC Barcelona be able to outplay Real Madrid this season?
Since the sport of football began stretching its roots in the world, a special rivalry, ElClasico, has been an integral part of the game. Having witnessed some of the greatest players to ever feature in the sport, from legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Raul, Ronaldinho, and Lionel Messi, the rivalry has been celebrated as the most iconic rivalry of football.
However, the current scenarios of both clubs have witnessed a drastic change since these legends left. But still, with players like Kylian Mbappe, Vini Jr., and Rodrygo for Real Madrid and stars like Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Lewandowski for Barca, the rivalry seems to be edging towards a new chapter. And thus, the question arises as to who will rule the coming era of this iconic rivalry.
Analyzing the last few matchups between the two, it has been clear that Los Blancos has been quite dominating over FC Barcelona. However, with Hansi Flick coming into the managerial role, a new era has started under the German manager, which has been quite successful so far. Thus, any conclusion drawn from the past few fixtures might not be a good basis for estimating the chances of the two clubs this season.
Up to this far in the season, with both the clubs having played 5 La Liga matchdays each, it can be said without a doubt that despite Real Madrid being the better team on paper, FC Barcelona has dominated the Spanish League. Beating opponents like Girona for fun, Flick's high-pressing tactics combined with ecstatic performances from the players have been instrumental in the club's start to the campaign.
On the other hand, even though Ancelotti's side, Real Madrid, finds themselves on an unbeaten streak, they aren't as convincing as everyone had expected. Having brought in superstar Kylian Mbappe, it was considered that the trio of Mbappe, Vini Jr., and Bellingham would rule European football, but that hasn't been the case so far.
Upon comparison, based on this season's performances, FC Barcelona stands much ahead of their Clasico rivals, who still haven't got the momentum they have been looking for. Recently, the Barcelona pundit Jota Jordi had an interesting say on the result of the two clubs facing each other currently. Jordi remarked,
""If the Clásico was tomorrow, we would beat Real Madrid 5-0.""
- Jota JordiNext. AS Monaco's Captain praises Barca's young sensation before UCL clash. AS Monaco's Captain praises Barca's young sensation before UCL clash. dark
Even though a scoreline of 5-0 could be called a bit exaggerated from Real Madrid's entourage, it is clearly certain that Barca, being in top-notch form, can get the better of their Clasico rivals this season. With almost a month remaining for the first El Clasico of the season, scheduled on October 27th, a lot might change, but given Barca's recent performances, much would be expected from them in the fixture.