According to a report by Barca Blaugranes on Saturday October 24, 2026, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has outlined the defensive approach his team must adopt to contain Kylian Mbappe ahead of Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid at Camp Nou.

The French forward is expected to pose a significant threat to Barcelona, with his pace, movement and finishing ability capable of punishing even the smallest defensive mistakes.

Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Flick stressed the importance of maintaining a strong defensive structure, applying pressure on the player in possession and ensuring his defenders remain well positioned throughout the contest.

Barcelona centre-backs Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín are expected to play important roles in the attempt to limit Mbappe's influence.

Flick expressed confidence in the pair, praising their performances and the understanding they have developed together.

“The important thing is to position yourself well with the ball and without the ball. Pressure on the player with the ball, advanced defence,” the Barcelona manager said.

“I think Cubarsí and Gerard are playing very well. What they are doing is incredible, they talk, they play, they are growing together.”

However, Barcelona's defensive preparations extend beyond dealing with Mbappe's individual threat. Flick also warned about Real Madrid's physical strength and their ability to create danger from set pieces.

The Catalan side conceded from a corner during their midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, and the German coach acknowledged that his players must improve in that area.

“We know Real Madrid’s strengths, and they’re among the best at set pieces. They’re also physically strong. We have to defend better than we did in Paris. We discussed it today,” he added.

Flick will be keen to ensure Barcelona avoid repeating the defensive mistakes that cost them against PSG. Against a team with Madrid's attacking quality, lapses in concentration could prove costly.

Barcelona are also expected to look for opportunities against a Madrid defence that has shown vulnerabilities this season. Nevertheless, the hosts will need to balance their attacking ambitions with defensive discipline to prevent Mbappe and his teammates from exploiting spaces on the counter-attack.