Rival watch: Real Madrid forward a doubt for Barcelona encounter

Following the blow of the UEFA Champions League exit at the hands of PSG, Barcelona now turn their focus towards arch-rivals Real Madrid as they prepare for the final El Clasico of the season on Sunday night.

With the two teams separated by eight points, Barcelona have a chance to cut down that gap with a win at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday and put pressure on their rivals in the title race.

Barcelona handed potential boost ahead of El Clasico

Leading up to Sunday’s contest, Barcelona might have received a boost in the form of a potential absence of one of Real Madrid’s most important players.

Indeed, as per Jordi Gil of SPORT, Real Madrid key superstar Vinicius Jr. is seen as a doubt for the Clasico this weekend following the physical discomfort he suffered last night against Manchester City.

Vinicius could miss Sunday’s Clasico. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

The Brazilian international started for Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium and played for 101 minutes before being taken off in the first half of extra time due to some muscle discomfort he picked up after a sprint race with Kyle Walker.

Vinicius will be undergoing tests later today to assess his fitness and Real Madrid are hoping that it is nothing serious and just some minor discomfort or muscle fatigue.

However, with only a couple of days left for the Clasico, at this point, Vinicius’ involvement is seen as a doubt against Barcelona.

If he indeed ends up missing the match, it will come as a big boost for Barça, for the Brazilian has been involved in nine goals against them in 16 games so far in his career.

Tests today will reveal his condition and more clarity on his availability should emerge after that.