The first El Clasico of the season is set to be played later this month and a lot will be riding on the result, as is the case more often than not. Real Madrid and Barcelona seem to be the two top contenders for the La Liga title once again. Carlo Ancelotti’s side sit atop the table and are three points ahead of Xavi’s team.
Of course, the table could look a lot different if Real Madrid lose to Barcelona later this month. Their recent record in El Clasicos is not a great cause for optimism either.
Ancelotti’s side have surprised people with how effective they have been this season though. With Karim Benzema no longer at the club and a lack of depth in several positions, most fans would have expected Real Madrid to struggle. Instead, they have won ten of their first eleven games in all competitions.
The only game that they have lost was against Atletico Madrid. Hopefully, they won’t be losing another big game so soon. There is some good news for Ancelotti ahead of the match.
Real Madrid handed boost for El Clasico vs Barcelona
As reported by MARCA, Nacho Fernandez will be able to play in the El Clasico. His suspension has been reduced from three games to two.
Nacho was suspended for a red card he received in the game against Girona for a challenge on Portu. A three-game suspension would have seen him miss the El Clasico but now he is set to be available.
Of course, it is unclear whether he will play any part. Antonio Rudiger has done well recently and David Alaba is expected to be available to take on Barcelona as well despite his recent fitness issues. Nacho does have the ability to play as a full-back too.