Barcelona boss Xavi believes that Real Madrid are the favourites to win this week’s El Classico, as his side travel to the Bernabeu on Thursday for the first leg of the Copa del Rey Semi-final.
We are lucky enough to be treated to three El Classico’s this month, with the first instalment coming this Thursday as Real Madrid play hosts to Barca for the Copa del Rey clash.
Barca manager Xavi is understandably worried about Madrid, after his side suffered losses of key players Robert Lewandowski, Pedri and Ousmane Dembele all to injury before this week’s game.
“Madrid are favourites because they are LaLiga and Champions League holders, they are a tough opponent and they are in good form.
“We have won a trophy, beating them in the final, playing extraordinary football, but it’s Madrid. They are competing really well — they scored five goals against Liverpool.
🎙️ XAVI: "We know Real Madrid are a difficult opponent … we're going to come out to win." #ElClásico pic.twitter.com/jLI4EkbrxP
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 1, 2023
“I have to be honest. I don’t mind saying it. That said, we have the weapons to do damage, we have shown that, and it will be an even tie, but they are favourites.”
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Barcelona fans will be worried to hear that their manager believes Madrid are the favourites for this weeks game, however Xavi still has hope for his team’s season saying that the picture is “still good”.
“If we only look at the last two games, we are in hospital, but if we look at how we are doing overall — seven clear in LaLiga, in the semifinal of the cup, Super Cup winners, we competed in Europe despite going out — the picture is still good.”
The recent head to head record in El Classico certainly favours Barca, who have won three of the last four games between the rivals. This week’s matchup is certainly going to be close however, as Barcelona look to get their season back on track while Madrid hope to continue their good form.
El Classico odds
- Real Madrid @ 10/11
- Draw @ 5/2
- Barcelona @ 3/1
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