The eternal rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona continues to capture the imagination of football fans across the world.
This rivalry will reignite on Sunday, October 26, when Barcelona visit Santiago Bernabeu for the 2025/26 season’s first El Clasico.
With both sides boasting immense talent and tactical depth, selecting a combined XI is always a heated debate.
Yet, based on current form, consistency, and availability, Real Madrid players dominate our version of this prestigious line-up.
Goalkeeper – Thibaut Courtois
With Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Joan Garcia both sidelined due to injuries, Thibaut Courtois becomes the clear and logical choice between the posts.
The Belgian shot-stopper has been in stunning form recently, keeping three clean sheets in the last five matches.
While Wojciech Szczesny’s experience offers reliability, Courtois’ reflexes, composure, and leadership make him an undisputed pick.
Right-back – Federico Valverde
Although Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold have resumed training, both are unlikely to be risked from the start.
On the other hand, Jules Kounde has shown moments of brilliance for Barcelona but remains inconsistent.
In contrast, Federico Valverde has been a powerhouse for Real Madrid, combining defensive work rate with attacking drive even in an unfavourable position.
His adaptability and energy on the flank make him the standout option.
Centre-back – Pau Cubarsi
At just 18 years old, Pau Cubarsi has already established himself as the heart of Barcelona’s defence.
His calmness on the ball and maturity beyond his years make him impossible to overlook. His growth and confidence at such a young age make him an automatic inclusion ahead of Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia.
Centre-back – Eder Militao
Since returning from injury, Eder Militao has been a rock at the back for Real Madrid. His pace, physicality, and ability to read the game have been vital for Xabi Alonso’s side.
With Antonio Rudiger unavailable, Militao takes the spot easily. Although Dean Huijsen has impressed in patches, the current fitness record makes Militao the safer and more dependable choice.
Left-back – Alvaro Carreras
Alvaro Carreras’ debut season at Real Madrid has gone under the radar, but his performances have been quietly exceptional.
Choosing between him and Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde is difficult, but Carreras’ consistency and superior defensive balance edge the contest.
His energy and positional discipline make him our preferred pick.
Defensive midfield – Aurelien Tchouameni
Aurelien Tchouameni has been a pillar of Real Madrid’s midfield this season, as his presence, strength in duels, and ability to dictate tempo make him indispensable.
While Frenkie de Jong and Marc Casado provide quality options, neither has matched the Frenchman’s consistency and composure under pressure.
Central Midfield – Pedri
Pedri remains one of the few Barcelona players capable of walking into any team in Europe.
His vision, balance, and ability to control the rhythm of play make him an obvious inclusion.
Real Madrid fans can only admire his elegance as he is a talent who would perfectly complement Los Blancos’ midfield. There is absolutely no debate about his place in this XI.
Attacking midfield – Arda Guler
For the advanced midfield role, Arda Guler earns the nod ahead of Fermin Lopez.
Despite Fermin’s impressive Champions League hat-trick against Olympiacos, Guler’s rise under Xabi Alonso has been sensational.
His creativity and sharpness in the final third have made him a revelation this season.
Right wing – Lamine Yamal
Once again, there is little debate here. Lamine Yamal’s maturity and flair make him one of the brightest stars in La Liga.
Though Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono offer talent, Yamal’s consistency and influence on big games give him the edge.
Forward – Kylian Mbappe
No contest. Kylian Mbappe’s presence in Real Madrid’s attack has redefined the team.
With his electric pace and clinical finishing, he is the first name on the team sheet. Ferran Torres does not come close in this debate.
Even if Robert Lewandowski had been fit, Mbappe would have been a clear choice.
Left wing – Marcus Rashford
A slightly controversial pick, but Marcus Rashford’s recent form has been extraordinary.
While Vinicius Jr. remains a global superstar, Rashford’s current run of performances and end product give him a slight advantage for now.
His adaptability and work rate have been key to Barcelona’s improvement, which gives him a rare win in this Madrid-heavy XI.
