On the eve of the highly anticipated Clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Fermín López has already identified the two Madrid players he would like to get rid of. Asked by Teledeporte before this display at the top of La Liga, the Spanish attacking midfielder took part in the game by designating the opponents he would prefer not to face. And his choice quickly fell on Thibaut Courtois and Kylian Mbappé, two essential elements of the Madrid system. “ Courtois scores a lot of points, he makes some great saves and Mbappé makes the difference, he scores a lot of goals. If I could, I would remove both! », Launched the 23-year-old with humor. A funny statement, but which also demonstrates the respect that the Barcelonan has for the two stars of Real Madrid, capable of turning a match on their head.
The choice of Fermín López is not insignificant. In the Madrid cages, Thibaut Courtois remains one of the most difficult goalkeepers to deceive, especially during big matches where his interventions regularly allow Real to stay in the match. For his part, Kylian Mbappé represents a permanent threat to opposing defenses thanks to his speed, movement and efficiency in front of goal. Two profiles which could particularly complicate the task of Hansi Flick’s men, eager to gain the upper hand over their great rival. Barça will also have to deal with several defensive uncertainties, notably concerning Jules Koundé, still hampered by a sprained left ankle, while Eric Garcia is unavailable due to a muscle injury.
