The Blaugrana's task of retaining the Spanish Super Cup has been handed a huge blow as a key player has ruled out of the final against Real Madrid
Barcelona is gearing up for a highly anticipated El Clasico Spanish Supercopa final against Real Madrid, but the Catalan giants will have to navigate the clash without the services of key defender Joao Cancelo.
Barcelona to tackle Real Madrid without Cancelo
Despite his inclusion in the squad that travelled to Saudi Arabia, Cancelo is set to miss out due to an ongoing injury.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez had initially expressed optimism about Cancelo's availability for the final, but recent developments suggest that the Portugal international won't be fit to participate in the crucial match.
The absence of Cancelo poses a defensive challenge for Barcelona, forcing Xavi to reconsider his lineup strategy for the final. With Spain star Pedri expected to feature against Real Madrid, Xavi might opt for an unchanged defence from the 2-0 semifinal win over Osasuna. Pedri is likely to replace Sergi Roberto in midfield.
Barcelona aim for Super Cup success
Despite the setback, Barcelona remains determined to put up a strong performance in the Spanish Supercopa final. The young talent Lamine Yamal, who made headlines with a record-breaking goal off the bench against Osasuna, is anticipated to be on the bench.
If he gets the chance to play in the final, the 16-year-old could make history by becoming the youngest-ever El Clasico scorer.
As Barcelona faces the challenge of Real Madrid in the Supercopa final, the absence of Cancelo adds an extra layer of complexity to their defensive setup. Fans eagerly await the outcome of the match, with both teams aiming for supremacy in this high-stakes encounter.
Related content
23:18 - 12.01.2024
Spanish Super Cup final: Real Madrid vs Barcelona match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch
The famous EL Clasico will grace the final of the Spanish Super Cup as Real Madrid tackle Barcelona
21:10 - 11.01.2024
‘We do not use levers’ — Osasuna boss aims sly insult at Barcelona over Spanish Super Cup money
Osasuna are not pulling any punches in their attack of LaLiga's bigger clubs over money allocated for the Spanish Super Cup
14:25 - 11.01.2024
3 Reasons for Gerard Pique's return to football
The Barcelona legend has made a shock decision to join mainstream football by becoming a coach
13:16 - 11.01.2024
Has Rudiger gone too far? Real Madrid star spotted twisting Morata's nipple in Madrid derby
Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro Morata were in action in the eight-goal thriller between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
21:08 - 09.01.2024
Spanish Super Cup: Osasuna vs Barcelona match preview, predictions, possible lineups, time and where to watch
Barcelona's quest for a first trophy of the season sees them come up against Osasuna in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final
17:06 - 08.01.2024
Spanish Super Cup semi-final 2024: Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid match preview, predictions, possible Line up, time and where to watch
Real Madrid and rivals Atletico Madrid will vie for a place in the Spanish Super Cup final
15:31 - 08.01.2024
Real Madrid Beckons: Erling Haaland Could Depart Man City for Just $109 Million
Erling Haaland, Manchester City's striking sensation, is reportedly eyeing a dream move to Real Madrid, a transition that could happen for a surprisingly affordable fee.
14:38 - 08.01.2024
Kylian Mbappe breaks Real Madrid hearts again, denies Los Blancos’ agreement rumour
Real Madrid's pursuit of Kylian Mbappe continues to get more twists and turns as the Paris Saint-Germain star has again denied having an agreement in place with the Spanish giants despite widespread reports
13:24 - 08.01.2024
Barcelona’s Joao Felix's to get stunning 900% Salary increment
Portuguese forward Joao Felix has received a massive salary hike after entering a new stage of his Barcelona contract
07:55 - 07.05.2024
Top 10 most expensive football players of 2024
Who are the most valuable football players in the world in 2024?
12:05 - 06.01.2024
Bellingham beats Norway's Erling Haaland to Most Valuable Player honour
Jude Bellingham and Norway's Erling Haaland top the list of 100 most valuable players in the world.
21:15 - 05.01.2024
Injury crisis: Barcelona’s Cancelo faces knee injury, return date uncertain
Joao Cancelo joins Barcelona's long list of absentees due to injury.
18:46 - 05.01.2024
Copa del Rey: Arandina vs Real Madrid match preview, predictions, possible Line up, time and where to watch
Real Madrid will hope to avoid a major Banana peel when they play against fourth-tier Arandina in the Copa del Rey