The Spanish Supercopa final is upon us, and the focus is intense! With Barcelona and Real Madrid set to clash, the spotlight is firmly on the rivalry, not individual players. But here's where it gets controversial... is it wise to downplay the threat of a player like Kylian Mbappé?
Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, is adamant: the team's concentration is on Real Madrid, not the potential return of Mbappé, who has been nursing a knee injury. Mbappé, a key player for Madrid, might make a comeback for the final. He's had an incredible season, with 29 goals across all competitions. And let's not forget his impressive record in El Clásico matches, scoring six times.
Flick addressed the media, sidestepping questions about how his team's high defensive line might be tested by Mbappé. He emphasized that the focus is on Madrid, not Mbappé.
Flick acknowledges Mbappé's talent, calling him the best striker in the world right now. He highlighted that Mbappé scored when Madrid beat Barcelona earlier this season, ending a streak of four consecutive Clásico wins for Barcelona under Flick.
That loss put Madrid five points ahead of Barcelona, but the tables have turned since then. Barcelona is now leading LaLiga by four points and is on a nine-game winning streak.
Flick remains optimistic, stating the team has bounced back, is playing better, and is more successful. He has a good feeling about his team and is confident they will perform at their best.
Did you know? This final marks the fourth consecutive time Barcelona and Madrid have met at this stage. The Supercopa has often foreshadowed the second half of the season, with the last four winners also winning LaLiga. Barcelona won last year's final 5-2 and is entering this year's match on a nine-game winning streak, having kept a clean sheet in their last five games.
A nearly full squad is ready, with only Gavi and Andreas Christensen confirmed absentees. Lamine Yamal is fit to start after being on the bench for the semifinal win.
What do you think? Is Flick right to focus solely on Real Madrid, or should Mbappé's potential presence be a bigger concern? Share your thoughts in the comments!
