Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly prepared to stick with the defensive lineup that featured against Paris Saint-Germain when his side meets Real Madrid in the eagerly anticipated El Clasico, despite the disappointing outcome of their recent European fixture.

According to journalist Alfredo Martinez, Xavi Espart is expected to occupy the right-back position, with Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin forming the central defensive partnership. Joao Cancelo is also tipped to start at left-back as Barcelona prepare for a crucial encounter against their biggest rivals.

The reported selection plan follows Barcelona’s 4-2 defeat to PSG at the Parc des Princes, a result that ended their unbeaten start to the season. The loss exposed weaknesses in the team’s defensive organisation, leaving Flick under pressure to ensure his players respond positively when they face Real Madrid.

Injuries have further complicated Barcelona’s preparations, restricting the manager’s options in defence. Jules Kounde is expected to be unavailable after failing to recover from the ankle injury he sustained against Real Betis. Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen are also reportedly sidelined because of injury concerns, leaving Flick with fewer alternatives as he finalises his starting lineup.

With several defenders unavailable, Flick appears inclined to retain the four players who started against the French side. Although the defensive unit struggled during that match, maintaining the same personnel could provide a degree of familiarity as Barcelona attempt to improve their performance.

Espart is among the players likely to retain his place following an encouraging display in Paris. The young defender scored Barcelona’s opening goal against PSG, demonstrating his attacking potential despite the team’s eventual defeat. A start against Real Madrid would provide another opportunity for him to show his capabilities on a major stage.

Cubarsi and Martin are also expected to continue together in central defence. Martin has reportedly recovered from a knock that had previously created uncertainty about his availability, potentially allowing him to partner Cubarsi against Madrid’s attacking threats.

Cancelo remains the leading candidate to start on the left side of the back four. His ability to support forward attacks could provide Barcelona with an additional option in possession, but he will also need to remain attentive to his defensive duties throughout the match.

Barcelona’s backline will face a significant challenge after conceding four goals against PSG. Flick will expect the defenders to demonstrate greater discipline, improved communication and more effective coordination if they are to contain Real Madrid’s dangerous attackers.

Espart will have to manage the threat from Madrid’s wide players, while Cancelo must strike the right balance between contributing to attacks and protecting his side’s defensive flank. In the centre, Cubarsi and Martin will need to maintain concentration, coordinate their movements and avoid individual errors that could give their opponents decisive opportunities.

Despite the injury problems, Flick will expect his available defenders to deliver a more assured performance. The Clasico offers Barcelona an opportunity to recover from their European setback, restore confidence and respond to criticism of their defensive display.

However, retaining the same lineup will only be effective if the players improve their organisation and decision-making. Barcelona will need a more disciplined defensive performance to limit Real Madrid’s opportunities and give themselves a strong chance of securing a positive result in one of the season’s most important fixtures.