Title: Uncertainty Surrounds Three Key Real Madrid Players for Super Cup Final Against Barcelona
Three notable Real Madrid players face uncertainty ahead of this week's Spanish Super Cup final against FC Barcelona. The rivals have a history of clashes in the competition, with one club securing victories in 2023 and 2024.
Last time around, newly-appointed Barca manager Xavi Hernandez marked his silverware debut by outsmarting Madrid, only for Vinicius Jr. to deliver a hat trick and lead a 4-1 rout in the following encounter. Ex-boss Xavi's struggles continued as his successor, Hansi Flick, seeks to clinch his inaugural trophy at Barcelona's helm, repeating his successful approach against Carlo Ancelotti back in October.
Regrettably, Vinicius Jr. will miss La Liga actions due to suspension, but his domestic ban does not prevent a repeat of his tormenting performances against Barcelona. Fellow Madrid stars Luka Modric and Fede Valverde also encounter obstacles. Modric has reportedly been impacted by fatigue and controversy, while Valverde and Jude Bellingham have experienced muscle-related injuries.
The physical concerns about Valverde and Bellingham emerged during the Super Cup semi-final victory against Mallorca. Valverde required substitution around the 75th minute; meanwhile, Bellingham displayed signs of fatigue over multiple occasions. However, both players are predicted to regain fitness in time for the final against Barcelona.
Worryingly for Madrid, Valverde has played a pivotal role in every 2024/2025 La Liga match so far, leaving a void should he be unavailable. In the meantime, Aurelien Tchouameni bounced back from a head injury against Mallorca to continue his tournament contributions, potentially stepping up in midfield or central defense if Valverde cannot participate from the start.
In the balance hangs the potential for a transformed El Clasico, with Real Madrid's key figures fighting adversity to redefine their fortunes in Saudi Arabia.
Vinicius Jr.'s suspension does not affect his participation in the Spanish Super Cup final against FC Barcelona, despite missing La Liga matches due to discipline. Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid will face Barcelona's new manager Hansi Flick, who is aiming for his first trophy, with Aurelien Tchouameni set to take on a more prominent role if fellow midfielder Fede Valverde's muscle injury keeps him out of the starting lineup.
