Tata Martino has insisted that his Barcelona are ‘good’ going into this evening’s Clasico with Real Madrid.
The Blaugrana host the capital club at 17.00 UK time, and the Coach has claimed that his men are ready for the challenge of facing Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
“We’re feeling good,” he told reporters. “We didn’t beat Osasuna or Milan, but we’re not going backwards.
“We played the way we always do and we had chances to win. I hope we’re sharper in front of goal.
“We have to try and avoid losing the ball in the build-up play. Our rivals are very good on the break and could catch us out.
“It’s hard to say that I’m more interested in the result. If we have the chance to win then it will be playing well. There’s practically no other way we can play.
“In Pamplona we lacked speed in the final third and our play was duller than usual. In both games it was our decision making, which I never thought would be a problem for us.”
The Argentine tactician then commented on who could start for Barca tonight, and Gareth Bale’s potential Clasico debut.
“I’d decided on Saturday’s team before the trip to Milan. [Xavi, Iniesta and Cesc]all three could start or one could be left out. I’d decided on the team for Saturday before the trip to Milan.
“Ancelotti said Bale could play, not that he was going to. He’s an excellent player that can throw you off balance.”
