'Unlike last year' — Barcelona star speculates how Real Madrid will play in El Clasico

Barcelona midfielder Pedri believes that El Clásico will be an end-to-end affair, as he expects Real Madrid to play expansively, in contrast to their more conservative approach in recent years. 

There has been a change in how Los Blancos have approached matches this season. Since the arrival of Xabi Alonso, they look to dominate possession, rather than setting up to hit teams on the counter in big matches, favoured by erstwhile manager Carlo Ancelotti. 

Speaking ahead of the match, Pedri noted the difference in the way Real Madrid play compared to the four El Clásicos they lost last season. He said he expected Real Madrid to play on the front foot and match their approach. 

"Unlike last year, I think this time the Clásico will be involving two teams pressing at the same time,” he said, per Touchline Football. 

"We have been faithful to our way since Flick's arrival: high pressing, ball possession, and controlling the rhythm through possession of the ball."

 "We expect Madrid to also come out pressing, especially since on their home ground, they always try to impose their rhythm. This season, they started almost all their matches with pressing, and we expect the same from them now.”

Meanwhile, Barcelona will have to navigate this fixture without their most decisive player, Raphinha. The Brazil international suffered a relapse and has been ruled out. Their coach, Hansi Flick, will also watch the game from the stands after receiving a red card against Girona.