The arrival of both Barcelona and Real Madrid at Camp Nou was marred by violence. Both team buses were attacked. Barcelona fans mistakenly threw stones at their own team’s bus, believing it was the Real Madrid vehicle.
Real Madrid Bus Damaged
The Real Madrid team bus sustained damage, with a window broken during the incidents near Camp Nou.
The Barcelona bus was also hit by stones upon arrival.
Barcelona’s Starting XI
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona lineup includes Joan García, Eric García, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Cancelo, Gavi, Pedri, Rashford, Olmo, Fermín and Ferran Torres.
Eric García starts at right back, tasked with marking Vinicius. Ferran Torres starts ahead of Lewandowski, potentially indicating the Polish player’s future departure next summer.
Real Madrid Team Selection
Real Madrid’s coach, Arbeloa, has named his starting eleven: Courtois, Trent, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Fran García, Camavinga, Tchouaméni, Bellingham, Brahim, Vinicius and Gonzalo.
Brahim and Gonzalo are in the starting lineup. Camavinga comes into the midfield, replacing Pitarch.
Mbappé Omitted From Real Madrid Squad
Mbappé is not included in the Real Madrid squad list.
Minute of Silence for Hansi Flick’s Father
There will be a minute of silence observed as a tribute to Hansi Flick’s father, who passed away.
Internal Dispute Within Real Madrid Camp
The week leading up to the match was marked by a reported dispute between Tchouaméni and Fede Valverde. They reportedly clashed on two occasions. Although sanctioned internally, Tchouaméni is in the squad. Valverde misses out due to an injury.
Refereeing the Match
Alejandro Hernández Hernández will referee the match. He is the only Spanish official chosen to officiate at the next World Cup.
Camp Nou Expectations
A capacity crowd is expected at Camp Nou. Fans are eager to enjoy the occasion. A mosaic is planned to welcome the teams.
Arbeloa’s Press Conference Challenges
Álvaro Arbeloa had to deal with several issues during the pre-match press conference. These included Dani Carvajal’s repeated benchings, the Ceballos situation, numerous injuries, and the controversy surrounding Mbappé’s trip with his partner.
- Barcelona fans mistakenly attacked their own bus.
- Ferran Torres starts ahead of Lewandowski.
- Mbappé is not in Real Madrid’s squad.
The fans are hoping for a great atmosphere at Camp Nou following its ongoing renovation.