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Cristiano Ronaldo struggling, no Asensio hype: The five differences since last El Clasico
REAL MADRID and Barcelona face off in El Clasico today - and Express Sport are on hand to take you through five differences since the two sides last met.
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The Asensio hype has died down
Marco Asensio was the star of the show when Real Madrid cruised to a 5-1 aggregate victory in the Super Cup in August.
The young Spaniard unleashed an unstoppable 35-yard strike, which flew past Marc-Andre ter Stegen to send the Bernabeu into raptures.
With two fine performances across the two legs, many fans started to believe that the ex-Mallorca man was destined for greatness but he’s struggled for form in recent months.
Back in August the 21-year-old was one of the first names on the Galacticos’ team sheet but things are different now, particularly since the return of Gareth Bale.
The tables have turned
When Los Blancos trounced the Catalans in the Super Cup, many saw this season’s La Liga title going only one way.
Zinedine Zidane’s side were fresh from winning the league and Champions League double plus their strength in depth made them outstanding candidates to retain both trophies this time round.
Things couldn’t be more different as we reach Christmas with Real Madrid playing catch up to try and claw back the 11-point deficit.
Barca can extend their lead to 14 points with a win at the Bernabeu.
Paulinho the powerhouse
Many laughed when Paulinho joined Barcelona in the summer for £36m from Guangzhou Evergrande.
Dubbed a ‘Spurs reject’, the Brazilian has thrived in Ernesto Valverde’s midfield and become a fans’ favourite at the Nou Camp.
Having scored five goals in the league this season, he’s registered more than Cristiano Ronaldo (4) and the same as Antoine Griezmann.
In recent Clasicos, Barcelona have lacked a combative, energetic midfielder and Paulinho is the perfect player to fill that void.
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Valverde showing his managerial quality
It’s safe to say that Ernesto Valverde wasn’t the most popular choice to take over at Barcelona.
The Spanish tactician has certainly answered his critics after propelling the Blaugrana to the top of the table.
When his side were embarrassed in the Super Cup, we were braced for an era of Real Madrid dominance.
The current league standings and Barca’s unbeaten record is testament to Valverde’s coaching qualities and ability to get the best from his players.
Ronaldo not at his best
Barcelona will be relieved that Cristiano Ronaldo comes into the Clasico with a knock and in inconsistent form, but they would be naive to underestimate him.
The Portuguese talisman has only registered four goals in La Liga this term and has trained alone this week following a calf injury that he nursed during the Club World Cup.
Ronaldo was in red-hot form despite being sent-off during the Super Cup first leg at the Nou Camp as he scored a screamer.
Los Blancos will be desperate for a big performance from their forward as they look to close the gap at the top.