According to reports, Flick must field an entirely new defensive line due to the absence of key defenders Iñigo Martínez and Jules Koundé. Martínez is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card, while Koundé remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Eric García has performed exceptionally well as a right-back, filling in for Koundé. His impressive displays have reduced the need for a new signing in this position. Barcelona and Flick now intend to extend García’s contract—a player who was close to leaving in January but stayed after a conversation with Flick. García is likely to start as the fixed right-back.

With Martínez absent, Pau Cubarsi is expected to start as the main central defender. Cubarsi was substituted in El Clásico due to digestive issues but played through a stomach virus and should be available for the derby.

A New Pairing of Araujo-Christensen?
Flick may opt for a new defensive duo of Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen. In El Clásico, Christensen replaced Araujo, who received a yellow card in the first half. At left-back, Alejandro Balde could return to the starting lineup after weeks of injury. Gerard Martín, who filled in for Balde, performed decently and played 34 minutes in the last match. Balde is likely to return for the derby.

Everything suggests Flick will be forced to use a defensive line not seen this season. The choice between Christensen and Araujo, along with the return of Balde—who was in excellent form before his injury—adds intrigue to this new lineup. These defensive changes could influence the derby, especially in a match that is decisive for Barcelona.