According to a report by Barca Universal on Thursday, October 22, 2026, former Barcelona defender Sergi Barjuan believes Hansi Flick’s side have the upper hand over Real Madrid ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated El Clasico at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Barcelona are preparing to host their biggest rivals in one of the most significant matches of the season, with both sides expected to produce an intense battle. Although Real Madrid have gained confidence following their recent Champions League victory, Barjuan believes Barcelona’s form, fitness and tactical organisation give them an advantage.

The former left-back acknowledged that Madrid have improved but maintained that Barcelona have been more consistent in several important areas ahead of the encounter.

“Barça are in very good form. The statistics speak for themselves. But we’re talking about a Clasico, and a Clasico isn’t a normal match,” Barjuan said.

“Real Madrid are coming off the back of a good win in the Champions League and have been strengthened, but in terms of structure, fitness and results, I see Barça as the better side.”

Barjuan’s assessment will offer encouragement to Flick as Barcelona prepare for a difficult test against their long-standing rivals. The German coach will be hoping his players can maintain their recent performances and secure another important result, although Real Madrid’s quality means the hosts cannot afford to underestimate them.

The former Barcelona defender also voiced his disappointment over the off-field controversies surrounding the fixture, insisting that attention should remain on the football rather than disputes involving the clubs and refereeing decisions.

He believes both teams should settle the argument through their performances on the pitch instead of allowing external tensions to overshadow the occasion.

Meanwhile, former Barcelona winger Cristian Tello has also shared his excitement about Sunday’s encounter, predicting an open game and expressing hope that his former club will emerge victorious.

Tello also praised young defender Xavi Espart for his performance against Paris Saint-Germain, highlighting Barcelona’s continued willingness to give academy graduates opportunities in the first team.

The youngster’s progress underlines the importance of La Masia, with Flick increasingly placing his trust in young players to contribute at the highest level.

Barcelona will now aim to turn their perceived advantage into a positive result when they face Real Madrid on Sunday. However, despite Barjuan’s confidence in the Catalans, El Clasico remains unpredictable, and Madrid will be determined to upset the hosts.