The marquee signings
La Liga’s two most expensive signings in the 2013 summer transfer window will go head to head as Barcelona take on Real Madrid for the first time this season. The two were the talk of the summer as Gareth Bale and Neymar finalised their big money moves to Spain.
However life in the Iberian country has begun in contrasting fashion for both individuals. In case of the Brazilian, the mercurial number 11 continued from where he left off and after an inspirational display for his national side in the Confederations Cup, Neymar has continued his brilliant form with his new club.
The 21-year-old had opinions divided on him upon his move to Camp Nou but he has managed to silence his critics and has not only managed to cement his place in the starting eleven but in his six starts in La Liga the former Santos man has notched up two goals and five assists.
Whereas Neymar is almost certain to start in Saturday’s encounter, his opposing number 11 will be hoping to make an impression from the bench. Gareth Bale who was inducted as the latest member of Florentino Perez’s galacticos for what is believed to be a world record fee, was expected to be an instant hit at the Bernabeu.
However the Welshman’s time in Spain has so far been riddled with unfortunate injuries which have limited his game time. Also the fact that the 24-year-old did not get to take part in Madrid’s pre-season matches has hindered his progress.
To make matters worse Gareth Bale who is being played out of position on the right side is against one of the finest wingers in Spain. Angel Di Maria who defied a move abroad to fight for his place in the team has not just successfully regained his place but has also won the hearts of Madridistas all over the globe. The Argentinean’s sublime form means that the 100 million dollar man will have to play second fiddle to Di Maria.
However, a tactical decision by Ancelotti to drop the out-of-form Karim Benzema for El Clasico on Saturday may make place for the Welshman. Whereas Neymar will have to replicate his good form which he has already displayed in almost all of Barcelona’s matches so far, Gareth Bale will have to step a gear up and make use of the limited opportunities he gets to deliver the performance everyone knows he is capable of in arguably the biggest game of his career so far.
The tactical geniuses
Both Tata Martino and Carlo Ancelotti are no strangers to derbies having managed the biggest clubs in the world. Whereas Ancelotti has a strong European pedigree having been in charge of the biggest clubs in the continent, Martino enjoys a similar reputation in South America.
In his only season as manager of Newell's Old Boys the 50-year-old guided his former club to a successful campaign. Even though Tata has not managed a European team before, he fits into Barcelona’s philosophy perfectly playing a high pressing attacking game just like his mentor Marcelo Bielsa does.
And the Argentinean has not disappointed yet meeting the high standards set by the club. His antics so far have seen Barcelona undefeated this season. In fact the Blaugrana have only twice dropped points this season, which was in their last two matches against Osasuna and AC Milan.
Compared to Tata’s six, Ancelotti has won 13 titles in what has been an illustrious managerial career for the Italian. However, while their counterparts have cruised so far Ancelotti’s Real Madrid have stuttered in the league.
Los Blancos have already lost a match and were lucky to notch up points against the likes of Villarreal and Elche. However the Castillians will be high on spirits having made a perfect start to their Champions League campaign after they defeated Italian champions Juventus.
Ancelotti will be hoping for a similar showing from his side but will have to make an important decision pertaining to striker Karim Benzema who has not lived upto his billing this season. Apart from being astute as far as team selection is concerned, Ancelotti will not just have to find a way to control the brilliance of Messi but will also have to devise a plan to keep Neymar at bay, while ensuring that Madrid’s attacking play is not compensated for.
The outcome
All in all Saturday’s encounter can be detrimental in determining how the respective coaches are looked upon by their fans, a win could take them to sky heights whereas a loss might tarnish all the good work they have done so far. And what will be made of Neymar and Bale? Will any of them set up the Camp Nou on fire with an explosive and heroic display? That remains to be seen!
