"Until recently, the Blaugrana were working under the assumption that Real Madrid would arrive at the final with a severely weakened backline, an idea reinforced by the physical problems picked up by key players during the semi-final against Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid's defensive concerns emerged after Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio both showed signs of discomfort during the intense clash with Atletico."
"However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the picture is now clearer. While Real Madrid do have issues to manage, Xabi Alonso's side are expected to recover Asencio in time for the showdown against Barcelona. Real Madrid held a recovery session on Friday for players involved in their semi-final victory, and although Asencio did not take part, his absence was precautionary rather than alarming."
"Importantly, Asencio is not suffering from any injury despite being forced off early in Thursday's semi-final. The defender is expected to return to full training on Saturday, placing him in contention for a starting role in the final. In contrast, uncertainty remains around Rudiger, while Rodrygo is also still considered a doubt, leaving some lingering questions for Alonso ahead of the Clasico."
Barcelona prepared for the Spanish Super Cup final expecting Real Madrid to have a severely weakened defence after physical problems in the semi-final. Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio showed discomfort during the intense clash with Atletico, prompting doubts over their availability. Mundo Deportivo reports that Asencio is not injured, missed a recovery session as a precaution, and is expected to return to full training on Saturday, making him a contender to start the final. Rudiger remains uncertain and Rodrygo is also a doubt. Barcelona's overall approach remains unchanged because Madrid's defensive state has not prevented Barcelona from scoring.
Read at Barca Universal
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]