Real Madrid superstar highlights the key to beating Barcelona in El Clasico | OneFootball

In a little over 24 hours, Real Madrid will take on FC Barcelona in their first El Clasico of the Xabi Alonso era.

Having had to endure the humiliation of four losses in four games against the Blaugrana last season, the Spanish capital giants will be out for revenge and, in the process, aim to strengthen their grip at the top of the La Liga table.

Leading up to the game, Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham, who scored the winner against Juventus earlier this week, spoke to RMTV, discussing the importance of El Clasico and what the team needs to do to win.

On the importance of El Clasico

Bellingham will be playing his eighth Clasico encounter since joining Real Madrid in the summer of 2023. And the England midfielder described the clash as one of the ‘biggest matches in football’.

“It’s probably one of the biggest games in the world. As a kid, I watched them all; I grew up following these matches. I’ve played in a few of them,” said Bellingham.

“I’ve had some really good moments and some tougher ones, but it’s an incredible game to play, especially at home, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Continuing, he added: “As a team, these weeks are very exciting. We want to maintain the momentum from the last few games and carry it into this one as well.”

Describing what it means for players and the team to win these kind of matches, Bellingham remarked:

“I think everyone understands that the goals and wins in these games mean a little more because they prepare you emotionally and mentally for the rest of the season.

“Knowing you can beat your biggest rival for the title gives you the belief you can have a good season. I felt that way in my first year. We want to feel that way again, and that’s why winning is so important.”

On Lessons from last season, personal approach to El Clasico

Bellingham was then asked to point out what will be the key to defeating Barcelona on Sunday, to which he pointed out some of the mistakes that Real Madrid made last season, which they need to cut out.

“A very important part is managing the match, the moment, emotions, and certain details that make all the difference. Last year, when we found ourselves behind in some matches, it affected us too much, and we let the game slip away,” he admitted.

Game-management the key, says Bellingham. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“Now it’s about staying mentally stable throughout the 90 minutes. Tactically, we know how they play and how we want to play.

“So the key is managing the rest well: the nerves, the pressure, the atmosphere… which is going to be huge. It’s these details that can make the difference.”

Discussing his own mindset heading into the game, after the win vs Juventus, the Real Madrid superstar noted:

“I feel very good and happy. Finally back on the pitch. In the last few games before the break, and then against Getafe and Juve, I started to feel better, closer to my best form.

“I’m strong and positive, probably in the best physical condition I’ve been in a long time. I’m ready to contribute and give whatever it takes for the team to win and continue the momentum they’d already created while I was away.

“I hope I can continue playing well, enjoying ourselves, and winning.”

The Bernabeu atmosphere and the fans

As Bellingham mentioned earlier, playing a clash of this magnitude, particularly in front of a packed Santiago Bernabeu is a special feeling for a footballer.

Further delving into what the atmosphere at Real Madrid’s iconic stadium feels like, the midfielder explained:

“It’s incredible. For a player, there’s no better setting than this stadium for a big match. I’ve experienced it many times, but you never get used to it.

“Every time you step onto the pitch, your skin crawls: the tifos, the chants… you know you’re in for a big night. I hope we can repay all the energy the fans give us.”

Talking about how fans in England view and experience the Clasico, Bellingham added:

“In England, everyone recognizes that this is one of the biggest matches in the world. There are big classics and derbies, but even there, everyone is aware of what this match means.

“Because of the level we’ve seen over the years, the pressure, the demands, the quality of the players, and the stakes involved every time.”

I grew up there, but that doesn’t change my perspective: on the contrary, I respect it even more. So yes, it’s important that we get the win,” he concluded.