Robert Lewandowski will start on the bench for Barcelona against Real Madrid as they face off in Sunday’s huge El Clasico.
Lewandowski has enjoyed another fine season leading the line for the Catalan giants, scoring 25 goals in 31 La Liga games.
The Pole’s efforts have helped guide Hansi Flick’s side to the top of the table with just four games remaining in the season.
However, in recent weeks, Lewandowski has struggled with a hamstring problem and missed Barca’s last four games before a 30-minute cameo against Inter in Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg.
The 36-year-old suffered no ill effects from that substitute appearance but, despite that, has not been risked to play from the start in today’s match.
Speaking on Saturday, Flick confirmed the decision, while also confirming that Alejandro Balde and Marc Casaldo also won’t start.
‘As starters, I don’t think the moment is right for them,’ Flick told reporters when asked if Lewandowski or Balde could start the game.
‘Ferran [Torres] in attack and Gerard [Martín] at left-back are doing very good.
‘When you see Gerard, how he’s playing in a semifinal of the Champions League, it’s really great.
‘Casadó is also available. But we have to take care. We have three more league matches after Madrid. Tomorrow is more for them to come on in the second half.’
Real Madrid, meanwhile, have seen their defence decimated by injuries this season, with Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy all in the treatment room.
Midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is also out for the season, but in better news forward Rodrygo should be fit after missing last week’s win over Celta Viga through illness.
A win for Barcelona today would leave them needing to win just one of their remaining three games in order to seal the title.
What time does Barcelona vs Real Madrid kick-off today?
Today’s El Clasico kicks-off at 3.15pm UK time at the Barcelona Olympic Stadium – the home side’s final match at the venue before they return to the renovated Camp Nou next season.
Where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid on TV and live stream
In the UK, the game will be televised live on Premier Sports, with coverage to begin on Premier Sports 1 at 3.10pm.
You can also live stream the action on the Premier Sports app and website.
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