Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is expected to watch Barcelona's Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain closely as he prepares for the upcoming El Clasico.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Mourinho wants to examine how Barcelona manager Hansi Flick deals with his team's defensive problems before the two Spanish rivals meet at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Barcelona have injury concerns in defence, with Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia among the players whose availability could affect Flick's selection. Mourinho is expected to pay attention to how the German coach adjusts his backline in their absence.

The match against PSG could give the Real Madrid manager an idea of the defensive options Flick may consider for El Clasico. Barcelona will need to find a way to maintain their defensive shape despite the players missing from the squad.

However, Mourinho and his coaching staff must first focus on Real Madrid's own European commitments before turning their full attention to Barcelona's performance.

Although Mourinho is already familiar with Barcelona's attacking approach, the game against PSG could show how well they cope with the absence of key defenders. Flick's choice of replacements and any tactical changes he makes are likely to be of particular interest.

Kounde's possible return would give Barcelona more options at the back and could allow Flick to restore a familiar defensive partnership. If the defender is still unavailable, the coach may have to rely on other players for the important fixture.

Barcelona's team selection against PSG may not necessarily be the same as the one Flick uses against Real Madrid on Sunday. However, his decisions in the Champions League match could provide an indication of which alternatives he trusts.

With the two matches coming close together, Flick must also consider the condition of his injured players and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Barcelona will be looking to compete against PSG while preparing for the demanding El Clasico encounter.