Mourinho To Study Barcelona Vs PSG For Selection Clues Ahead Of El Clasico Showdown

Jose Mourinho plans to watch Barcelona’s Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain as he prepares Real Madrid for this weekend’s El Clasico, with injuries in Barcelona’s defence likely to affect Hansi Flick’s selection.

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, citing SPORT, Mourinho wants to study Barcelona’s tactics and the players Flick selects ahead of the meeting between the two Spanish rivals.

Barcelona will be without Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia for the PSG fixture, leaving Flick with limited options as he works to organise his defence against the French side.

Mourinho is expected to examine how Barcelona cope with these absences and whether Flick uses defensive combinations that could also feature against Real Madrid.

Kounde’s fitness is another issue to watch before El Clasico. A possible return for the match against Real Madrid has not been ruled out, which could give Flick more choices in defence.

If Kounde returns, Barcelona’s defensive setup against PSG may not fully reflect the team Flick intends to use at the weekend.

Real Madrid have also made tactical changes in recent matches. Vinicius Junior’s suspension, Federico Valverde’s move to right-back and Arda Guler’s role in creating chances have all influenced Mourinho’s plans.

Yan Diomande and Endrick have also offered alternatives in wide attacking positions. Their defensive work could help Real Madrid maintain their shape while allowing Jude Bellingham to play further forward.

Mourinho must still decide how to approach the meeting with Barcelona. One key question is whether Real Madrid should press high to disrupt their opponents’ build-up or defend more cautiously and look for chances to attack on the counter.

Barcelona’s performance against PSG could give Mourinho an idea of Flick’s preferred players, defensive organisation and response to pressure.

However, changes to Barcelona’s lineup before El Clasico could limit how much Mourinho can learn from the Champions League match.

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