Children’s El Clásico. Which youngster will shine in the biggest game in the world?

El Clásico was a clash between two of the best footballers in the world in the last decade. The most loaded teams, the million-dollar stars, it was a duel between Real Madrid and Barcelona. But now both teams are going through a rebuilding process and we will watch a “baby El Clásico”. Which of the youngsters will shine?

Although there is a 15-point gap between the two teams in the league and Real Madrid is safely in the running for the title, whether you want it or not, El Clásico is still the biggest game in the world. It’s the most watched football match, capturing the world’s attention like no other game.

And Sunday’s game could be decided by the youngsters. Both Carlo Ancelotti and Xavi Hernandez can rely on several talented footballers in their squad who, although they don’t hold many candles on the birthday cake, have been given a lot of footballing quality.

Real Madrid

Vinícius Junior – 21 years old, left winger
Federico Valverde – 23 years old, central midfielder
Rodrygo – 21 years old, right winger
Eduardo Camavinga – 19 years old, central midfielder

Barcelona

Pedri – 19 years old, central midfielder
Gavi – 17 years old, central midfielder
Ronald Araújo – 23 years old, stopper
Ferrán Torres – 22 years old, left winger

These are the most outstanding youngsters of both teams this season. The king is Vinícius Junior, who together with Benzema has formed a lethal duo. The Brazilian whizz-kid already has 17 goals and 10 assists to his name. He is the terror of all defences and his strength has been recognised by Barcelona, for whom Vinícius scored in the Super Cup in January.

But Barcelona’s youngsters are excelling under Xavi. Pedri and Gavi are getting the most space and their technique and game intelligence is admirable for their age. Torres has scored five times since arriving at Camp Nou in the winter, with three more goals. Araújo, on the other hand, is growing into a modern stopper.

Ancelotti can also count on Valverde and Camavinga in the centre of midfield, although both are finding it very difficult. In fact, Real Madrid’s midfield is dominated by the trio of Casemiro – Kroos – Modric, which may be the best in the world. Still, they get their opportunities and when they come on, they don’t disappoint.

Moreover, Valverde loves big games, against PSG he was the invisible key to progression with his hard work and black work, he also likes El Clásico. He decided the duel in extra time in January’s Super Cup, he also scored against Barcelona last year at Camp Nou. Rodrygo, on the other hand, assisted Alaba’s goal in the autumn El Clásico.

So don’t expect any nervousness from these youngsters. They may still be beginners in adult football, but they are already reaching for the top with their skills. It’s not for nothing that they’re playing for two of the biggest clubs in the world.

Compare

Barcelona have fielded nine players under the age of 2000 this season. Eric García (21), Álvaro Sanz (21), Nico González (20), Ez Abde (20), Yusuf Demir (18), Álex Balde (18), Estanis Pedrola (18), Ilias (17) and Gavi (17).

Real Madrid have sent 7 players born no later than 2000 to the game in the current edition. Vinícius (21 años), Rodrygo (21), Sergio Santos (21), Antonio Blanco (21), Miguel Gutiérrez (20), Peter González (19) and Eduardo Camavinga (19).

The average age of Barcelona’s starting line-up is 25.3 years, the third lowest average in La Liga. The Catalans are surpassed only by Valencia with an average age of 24.6 years and Real Sociedad – 25.1 years. Real Madrid has an average roster age of 27.3 years.

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