Barca unveils a 'secret formula' of 4 steps to shut down Mbappe at Bernabeu

Before the El Clásico, Barcelona caught eyes when coach Hansi Flick made four crucial tactical changes aimed at locking down Mbappe and Vinicius at the iconic Bernabeu stadium.

Barcelona is rushing preparations for the El Clásico against Real Madrid, with coach Hansi Flick forced to tweak tactics to counter Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. Young center-back Pau Cubarsí revealed the team has “altered four vital defensive aspects” to close gaps and minimize threats from Real’s two deadliest attackers.

Recent losses to Paris Saint-Germain and Sevilla exposed Barca’s defensive vulnerabilities. Their previously high pressing style, which helped control matches, has now become a weak point against fast and counter-attacking opponents.

With several key players missing like Lewandowski, Christensen, Gavi, and Garcia, Flick shifted from a wide ball distribution to a compact formation, prioritizing cover and quick ball recovery. “We have adjusted four defensive points to stop Mbappe and Real’s forwards. The whole team must stay extremely focused and uphold our philosophy,” Cubarsí explained.

On the other side, Real Madrid also faces squad absences with Alaba, Rüdiger, and Carvajal out. Yet Mbappe’s explosive form, scoring 10 goals, combined with Vinicius’s agility, keeps the royal team’s attack among La Liga’s most formidable. “Everyone knows how dangerous Mbappe is, and Vinicius moves very flexibly. The defense must remain alert at all times,” the 18-year-old center-back emphasized.

Despite difficulties, Barca maintains confidence after back-to-back wins against Girona and Olympiacos. Even if Flick might be banned from direct coaching, his tactical influence is clearly visible in the team’s play. “The 6-1 victory boosted our confidence and enthusiasm. The entire squad believes we can achieve something special at Bernabeu,” Cubarsí stated.

The El Clásico on the early morning of October 27 (Vietnam time) promises intensity and drama, with Barca betting everything on a youthful defense and tactical tweaks to stop the Mbappe-Vinicius duo, keeping hopes alive in the La Liga title race.