Xavi Hernandez, the head coach of Barcelona, has expressed cautious optimism that he could depend on his best player, striker Robert Lewandowski, for Saturday’s Clasico match against Real Madrid, their fiercest rival.
Xavi had some encouraging news on Friday, as it was reported that Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde, Raphinha, and Pedri all participated in training before the big game. This comes after the team has been dealing with significant injury issues over the last few weeks, with up to seven players being sidelined.
Lewandowski, De Jong, and Raphinha are ahead of schedule in their recoveries, and all indicators point to the previous year’s La Liga top scorer being able to start against Real. Defender Jules Kounde and midfielders Pedri and Sergi Roberto have been ruled out of the match.
During a news conference, Xavi said, “I can’t reveal the line-up right now, but (Lewandowski) is fine, and I’ll make my decision tomorrow.”
“It’s complicated (to take risks with injured players) and in the end only those who are 100% will play tomorrow.”
Xavi, who had to call up eight academy players for Wednesday’s Champions League encounter against Shakhtar Donetsk, commended the club’s youthful talent for performing well at the top level. The match was played in Barcelona.
Fermin Lopez, who is only 20 years old, played exceptionally well for Barca in their 2-1 victory over Shakhtar. Lopez, who is becoming a regular in the first squad with youths Lamine Yamal and Marc Guiu, was one of the main reasons for the victory.
“The homegrown players provide us with a distinct advantage. They put in a lot of effort, and they are aware of how important the game tomorrow is, as well as what it means for our people, ” stated Xavi.
“There are more nerves and more emotions, but you have to control them. The stakes are higher.” You need sound judgment, but it will be difficult since your heart will be beating quicker and your blood will be boiling.
Honest is now in first place in the La Liga rankings, tied with Girona, who have been one of the biggest surprises of the season, with 25 points after ten games. Atletico Madrid are now in third place with 22 points, two points ahead of Barcelona, with one game in hand.
