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Barcelona have the opportunity to extend their lead over Real Madrid to nine points when Spain's two powerhouses clash in the opening Clásico of the 2026–27 campaign.
Barça had been flawless across all competitions before suffering at the hands of the reigning back-to-back European champions in midweek. Hansi Flick's side, who had won all nine of their La Liga fixtures, fell 4–2 to Paris Saint-Germain in a predictably breathless Champions League contest brimming with quality.
That first stumble has prompted critics to claim that Barça's momentum is beginning to fade, and they now face a Madrid side riding high after two dominant displays. With José Mourinho back in the dugout, this prestigious fixture carries an even greater sense of spectacle.
Here's how Barcelona could set up for Real Madrid's visit this weekend.
Barcelona Predicted Lineup vs. Real Madrid (4-2-3-1)
GK: Joan García—García's outstanding efforts weren't enough to secure a result in midweek, as he racked up double-digit saves in the loss. Real Madrid's star-studded attack is likely to keep the Spaniard on his toes on Sunday, provided they can beat the offside line.
RB: Xavi Espart—Barcelona have pulled it off once more. Despite their injury problems at full back, Espart's presence in the squad gives them little cause for concern.
CB: Pau Cubarsí—Cubarsí goes head-to-head with Kylian Mbappé once again, having come out on top against the Frenchman in the World Cup semifinals.
CB: Gerard Martín—If there is a vulnerability in Barcelona's defensive unit, it lies with Martín. The academy product has filled in commendably at the heart of Flick's backline after originally breaking through as a left back, though he remains a temporary fix alongside Cubarsí at best.
LB: João Cancelo—Cancelo endured a difficult night in Paris and didn't respond well to criticism from supporters. "From the stands, everyone is an expert. I want to see you get into the game and take the pressure," he posted on Instagram. A strong showing in the Clásico is now essential.
CM: Rodri—Notably absent from Flick's midweek starting lineup, Rodri came on for the final 30 minutes in Paris ahead of the Clásico. It will be his first taste of the fixture, and there's little doubt the 2024 Ballon d'Or holder will embrace the moment.
Pick Your Barcelona XI!
CM: Pedri—The gifted midfielder is looking to bounce back after a difficult outing in the French capital on Tuesday.
RW: Lamine Yamal—Following a mixed performance in midweek, Yamal steps onto the pitch for the last time before the 2026 Ballon d'Or ceremony.
AM: Fermín López—Fermín looks set for a run in the side after Dani Olmo picked up a groin injury that will sideline him until after the November international break.
LW: Anthony Gordon—Flick may be tempted to turn to Karim Adeyemi here, but the German is so effective as an impact substitute that Gordon could hold onto his place in the starting lineup.
ST: Raphinha—Raphinha has a genuine love for the Clásico. The Brazilian, who completed around an hour of action in midweek following a recent injury return, has scored more goals against only Sevilla (nine) than Real Madrid (seven) throughout his senior career.