Lewandowski on Course to Play in Clasico, Xavi Says

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez is cautiously optimistic that he will be able to count on his top player, forward Robert Lewandowski, for Saturday’s Clasico against arch-rivals Real Madrid.

After facing serious injury problems in the last few weeks with up to seven players out, Xavi got good news on Friday as Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Jules Kounde, Raphinha and Pedri participated in training before the big game.

Defender Joules Kounde and midfielders Pedri and Sergi Roberto have been ruled out, but Lewandowski, De Jong and Raphinha are ahead of schedule in their recoveries and all signs point to last year’s LaLiga top scorer being fit to start against Real.

“I can’t reveal the line-up right now, but (Lewandowski) is fine and I’ll make my decision tomorrow,” Xavi told a press conference.

“It’s complicated (to take risks with injured players) and in the end only those who are 100% will play tomorrow.”