Real Madrid v Barcelona. How they square up.
Goalkeepers. The outgoing Victor Valdes, 32 v Diego Lopez, also 32. Lopez is excelling sufficiently to keep Iker Casillas out of the team. Both are hugely experienced. The best? Valdes.
Defence. Barcelona’s have conceded fewer league goals, yet is in more need of reinforcement and likely to see the most changes over the summer. Madrid will be without the suspended Sergio Ramos and the injured Alvaro Arbeloa. The best? Madrid.
Midfield. Barca’s Sergio Busquets, Xavi and Andres Iniesta v Madrid’s Luka Modric, Xabi Alonso and Isco. Both are brilliant and contain some of the best midfielders in world football, but Barca’s Spaniards shade it.
Attack. Madrid’s Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo v Barca’s Lionel Messi, Neymar and Cesc Fabregas. Or Pedro Rodriguez and Alexis Sanchez. Includes the best two players on the planet. The best? Madrid.
Manager. Both are in their first season. Gerardo Martino isn’t enjoying his life, Carlo Ancelotti is. The best? The Italian, for sustained success in his career and a four-point lead this term.
