Barcelona Coach Xavi Cautiously Confident About Lewandowski's Availability for Clasico

For Saturday's clasico against bitter rivals Real Madrid, FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez is cautiously confident that he will be able to rely on forward Robert Lewandowski.

Following a string of major injuries that sidelined as many as seven players in recent weeks, Xavi was relieved to learn on Friday that Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde, Raphinha, and Pedri had all practiced ahead of the important game.

Midfielders Pedri and Sergi Roberto, as well as defender Joules Kounde, are out, but Lewandowski, De Jong, and Raphinha are recovering more quickly than expected, and all the signs lead to the top scorer in La Liga last season being able to start against Real.

"Lewandowski is fine, and I'll make my decision tomorrow (Saturday)," Xavi said during a press conference. "I can't reveal the line-up right now."

"Taking chances with injured players is difficult, and only 100% fit players will play in the end."

Xavi commended the club's youthful talent for achieving at the top level. He had to call up eight academy players for Wednesday's Champions League encounter against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Fermin Lopez, a 20-year-old who is starting to establish himself in the first squad with adolescents Marc Guiu and Lamine Yamal, put on a fantastic performance to help Barca win a hard-fought 2-1 over Shakhtar.

"The domestic players add something special for us. They put in a lot of effort at work and are aware of the significance of tomorrow's game for our people, according to Xavi.

Ancelotti is upbeat

Jude Bellingham, a midfielder for Real Madrid, is cleared to play in the Clasico after being sidelined by a thigh strain during their Champions League victory against Braga, according to Real coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The 20-year-old has scored 11 goals and provided three assists in 12 appearances across all competitions, making his transition to Spanish football appear incredibly simple.

Bellingham is going to play as he's feeling good. "They have eliminated the excess tension (in his muscle)," Ancelotti stated during a press conference.

"Everyone understands what a Clasico is, so I don't need to explain it to him. It's an international match.

Ancelotti stressed that the game should not be viewed as a final, although admitting the intense excitement surrounding it.

"We're inspired... However, this is just the first Clasico of the season; more will follow.

Real has ten games played and 25 points. With a game remaining, Atletico Madrid is two points behind Barcelona, who now have 24 points.