Xavi: Lewandowski could face Real Madrid, Pedri and De Jong still questionable

The biggest game of Spanish football and one of the derbies with the longest tradition in the world is just around the corner. On Saturday, 5.15 PM EAT at Montjuic, where Barcelona are playing as a tenant this season due to the renovation of Camp Nou, the leading Real Madrid are coming for a much-anticipated visit. It's only the 11th round, and the difference is only one point, but the Catalans know very well that the winner in this game will get an adrenaline boost, while the loser is left to question his championship ambitions and qualities. And that's why they are extremely motivated ahead of the new El Clasico.

At the press conference, Xavi revealed that all the players were in training, and that even those injured would like to play and help their teammates. He announces that he will not take any risks with those not fully healed, although it is hard to believe that he will leave out Robert Lewandowski and some other important cogs of his machinery for a game like this, who could skip some less important duel.

The biggest dilemma is over Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, who could miss the fourth consecutive El Clasico due to a hamstring injury.

"Only those who we are sure are 100 percent ready will play. We will not rush anyone, the risk must be minimal. But I am happy that everyone would like to play, and we will see who will get that opportunity tomorrow," said Xavi.

As for Lewandowski, the Polish forward is ready to return to action after a month out due to an ankle problem.

"He's done all the sessions and feels good, but I don't want to hint at anything," Xavi tried to remain quiet in front of the journalists, although it's clear that after this statement, it would be a miracle if the Pole didn't run onto the field from the first whistle.

In addition to the aforementioned, the Barcelona coach also had Raphinha and Kounde at his disposal this Friday. Only Sergi Roberto was absent from team training.

"I was surprised when I saw that some players that we almost crossed out for this game also came to training. Everyone wants to play, the mood is great. Tomorrow we will determine the list when we see who feels how they feel after today's sessions," Xavi repeated.

LA LIGA - MATCHDAY 11

Friday

22.00: (1.72) Girona (3.70) Celta (5.00)

Saturday

15.00: (2.40) Almeria (3.45) Las Palmas (3.15)

17.15: (2.60) Barcelona (3.50) Real Madrid (2.80)

19.30: (2.35) Mallorca (3.20) Getafe (3.50)

22.00: (3.35) Cadiz (3.40) Sevilla (2.30)

Sunday

15.00: (2.10) Betis (3.45) Osasuna (3.90)

17.15: (3.15) Rayo Vallecano (3.15) Sociedad (2.40)

19.30: (1.70) Ath.Bilbao (3.60) Valencia (5.40)

22.00: (1.38) Atl.Madrid (4.70) Alaves (8.50)

Monday

22.00: (3.10) Granada (3.50) Villareal (2.40)

***odds are subject to change***