Hansi Flick’s biggest tactical headache ahead of Real Madrid showdown
· Yahoo Sports
As Barcelona prepare for one of the most important El Clásicos in recent years, Hansi Flick is facing one major tactical dilemma – how to stop an in-form Vinícius Júnior.
The Brazilian forward arrives into the clash in strong form after scoring four goals in his last three matches.
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Within Barcelona’s coaching staff, there is a clear understanding that limiting Vinicius could dramatically reduce Madrid’s danger in attack.
Because of that, Flick must analyse which player should take responsibility for containing the winger during the title-deciding showdown at Spotify Camp Nou.
Flick’s three options
As such, the manager currently has three serious options in mind, namely, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, and club captain Ronald Araujo.
Araujo has historically been Barcelona’s preferred solution against Vinicius in major Clásicos.
Even during periods where the Uruguayan regularly played centrally, previous managers often moved him to right-back specifically to deal with the Brazilian’s pace and direct running.
Kounde is likely to start against Real Madrid. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
However, the situation appears different this time because Kounde has generally been Flick’s first-choice option at right-back and remains the favourite to start there again despite an inconsistent campaign by his standards.
The French defender’s physical strength, recovery pace, and experience in one-on-one situations are seen as important qualities against Vinicius.
At the same time, Eric Garcia’s recent performances have complicated the decision for Flick.
The Spanish defender featured on the right side against Osasuna while Kounde served a suspension, and reports suggest the coaching staff were satisfied with his display.
What already appears almost certain is that Eric Garcia will start the Clasico, although the remaining question is whether Flick uses him at right-back or alongside Pau Cubarsi in central defence.
If Garcia moves into the middle, Barcelona would likely have to break up a defensive partnership between Cubarsi and Gerard Martin that has become increasingly stable in recent weeks.
That factor could ultimately push Flick towards keeping Kounde on the right side to neutralise Vinicius.