A long-term friend in Barcelona and wise cule thinks that Pep Guardiola, having assured himself of qualification tomorrow for the semi-finals of the Champions League , should go on to the Bernabeu with his reserve team.
His reasoning? Beating Mourinho that way would make an even bolder statement about the philosophy of La Cantera – and even if Barca loses, it would not mean losing La Liga, while strengthening the first squad for the other challenges left in the season-the Copa del Rey and the road to Wembley.
Of course Pep won’t do it. He is expected to beat Real Madrid trophy hunting not just once but four times in the next month or so. Our cules mad to dream? Probably, but not certainly. This rivalry defies logic.
I was thinking too about how big an ask it will be to win 4 games against Madrid in such quick succession, although we are certainly capable.
The league match is an interesting one from both sides as I think both know realistically the league is won now, with Madrid facing a very tricky run in and a Barca side who have dropped 9 points all season. I would be for resting a few players and leaving Mourinho something to think about for the Champions League and Copa rather than giving him a dress rehearsal for the 3 bigger games.
Still we have great reason to be confident in Pep and this team, the record vs Madrid in the previous 3 seasons has been perfect so lets hope it continues.