Xabi Alonso identifies Barcelona’s weakest link ahead of El Clasico – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly found a key area of weakness in Barcelona’s setup ahead of the highly anticipated El Clásico on October 26.

According to a report from Defensa Central, Alonso and his coaching staff have been closely analysing Hansi Flick’s side, and one clear tactical flaw has caught their attention, which is the defensive side of Lamine Yamal’s game.

As per the report, Alonso believes that Barcelona’s right flank, covered by Yamal, offers an opportunity that Real Madrid must look to exploit.

The young winger’s lack of defensive tracking and pressing leaves the flank exposed, creating openings for opposition runners.

During a recent tactical discussion at Valdebebas, Alonso was quoted as saying, “We have to attack him there, we can do damage…”

This is a clear indication that Real Madrid are planning to test that side of Barcelona’s structure.

The manager reportedly intends to use both Vinicius Jr. and Alvaro Carreras in coordinated movements down that channel to stretch Barcelona’s defence and create numerical advantages.

Respect for Yamal, but focus on the flaws

Real Madrid plan to attack Lamine Yamal’s wing. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Despite identifying Yamal as a defensive vulnerability, Alonso still holds the Barcelona youngster in high regard.

He considers the teenager, along with Pedri, to be among the most talented players in Flick’s squad.

However, from a tactical standpoint, the manager feels that Yamal’s lack of defensive discipline has been one of Barcelona’s biggest weaknesses this season.

This assessment is not based on speculation but on a detailed analysis of Barcelona’s recent matches.

The coaching staff has observed how Yamal often stays high up the pitch instead of tracking back, leaving his full-back isolated against overlapping runs.

For a team like Real Madrid, which thrives on quick transitions and positional rotations, this presents a potential route to a goal.

At the moment, Real Madrid are fully focused on their upcoming fixtures against Getafe and Juventus, but it is understood that Alonso and his staff are already working on the tactical approach for El Clasico.