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Hansi Flick to repeat PSG defensive lineup for El Clasico as star defender misses out

Hansi Flick will use the same defense from PSG against Real Madrid as Jules Kounde misses El Clasico and Xavi Espart starts at right-back.

By Parag J Kalita · Everything Barca

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 2:36 PM

Key Things to Know

Hansi Flick will field the same Barcelona defense from the PSG match for El Clasico.
Jules Kounde is ruled out after failing to recover from a sprained ankle and thigh injury.
Xavi Espart will start at right-back alongside Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Joao Cancelo.

The Story in 60 Seconds

FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is set to retain the defensive lineup used against Paris Saint-Germain for Sunday's El Clasico. The decision comes as star defender Jules Kounde remains unavailable due to an ankle injury alongside a thigh issue. Flick will start Xavi Espart at right-back, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin in central defense, and Joao Cancelo at left-back.

Espart impressed during the PSG match by scoring an equalizer and containing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia before being substituted. Real Madrid will enter the fixture without suspended forward Vinicius Junior.

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Hansi Flick to repeat PSG defensive lineup for El Clasico as star defender misses out

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