El Clásico: Predicted Lineups for Super Cup Final

The Spanish Super Cup final between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona on January 12, 2025, promises to be a fiercely contested El Clásico. As both teams prepare for this high-stakes encounter at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, their anticipated lineups offer a glimpse into the tactical strategies of managers Carlo Ancelotti and Hansi Flick.

Real Madrid is expected to deploy a 4-3-3 formation. Veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will anchor the defense. The backline is likely to include Lucas Vázquez at right-back, with Aurélien Tchouaméni and Antonio Rüdiger as center-backs, and Ferland Mendy completing the quartet at left-back. The midfield trio, comprised of Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Jude Bellingham, balances defensive stability and creative flair. Up front, the attacking trio of Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior is poised to lead Madrid’s charge.

FC Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, is also predicted to opt for a 4-3-3 setup. The goalkeeping position could feature Wojciech Szczęsny, with Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, Iñigo Martínez, and Alejandro Balde forming a robust backline. The midfield is expected to include Marc Casadó, Pedri, and either Gavi or Dani Olmo, providing creativity and defensive support. The forward line will likely feature Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha, adding pace and firepower.

Both teams welcome key players back from injuries, enhancing their options. For Real Madrid, Rodrygo returns after recovering from muscular issues, while Barcelona's Ronald Araújo strengthens their defense after a long-term hamstring injury. These reinforcements could prove decisive in a match of this magnitude.

This encounter represents more than a trophy—it’s a statement of supremacy in one of football’s most storied rivalries. With both teams fielding star-studded lineups, fans worldwide can anticipate a dramatic and high-quality clash, as Real Madrid and Barcelona vie for the Spanish Super Cup title.