Former Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti compared his old club andBarcelona‘s starting lineups before this Saturday’s El Clasico clash.
The Italian , who will take charge of Bayern Munich next season, gives Barcelona’s XI the edge over Real Madrid’s (4-2), with the other five spots being equal in his column for Chinese outlet Sina Sports
Ancelotti’s one vs one
Claudio Bravo vs Keylor Navas: Draw. Both are playing very well this season although it’s true that Navas might be more important than Bravo for his team.
Dani Alves vs Dani Carvajal: Draw. Both are very good when attacking and need to be more careful with the space they leave behind, especially Alves.
Pique vs Pepe: Pique. Pique’s performances this season have been excellent, he’s always concentrated and taking the right decisions. Pepe’s quickness and talent are important too.
Mascherano vs Sergio Ramos: Ramos. Mascherano knows how to play well as a central-defender even though he did not play there when his career was starting. Ramos is the heart and soul of Real and is always a decisive player in these matches.
Jordi Alba vs Marcelo: Marcelo. They have similar roles in their teams and their offensive contribution is great, but Marcelo is more important for Real Madrid.
Busquets vs Casemiro: Busquets. Sergio Busquets is definitely one of the world’s greatest midfielders and he has great tactical awareness. Casemiro is not as decisive but he has improved a lot lately.
Rakitic vs Kroos: Rakitic. Rakitic’s form has been unbelievable and his contribution to Barcelona has been great both mentally and physically. Kroos is a very important player but he has not reached Rakitic’s level just yet.
Iniesta v Modric: Draw. Both of them are two of the greatest midfielders. They can handle every match and they make their teammates better.
Neymar vs Bale: Neymar. His growth as a player has been impressive. Bale is also a decisive player but he’s missed many games due to injuries. Right now Neymar’s a better player.
Suarez vs Benzema: Draw. They are different. Suarez is a pure striker born to score and his mobility is capable of creating a lot of danger. Benzema is playing well too but he should have scored more. It’s a hard choice.
Messi vs Ronaldo: Draw. What can I say? The two greatest players and both of them are in great form.
Bron: Marca
