Hansi Flick’s Barcelona are charging towards a potential historic quadruple this season—but standing in their way, once again, are their fiercest rivals: Real Madrid.
As the two Spanish giants gear up for a monumental Copa del Rey final clash in Seville this Saturday, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For Flick’s revitalized Blaugrana, it’s a chance to claim their second major trophy of the season and tighten their grip on domestic dominance. For Carlo Ancelotti’s Los Blancos, it’s a shot at redemption after a season filled with inconsistency and Champions League disappointment.
Barcelona on the Brink of History
Barcelona, who currently lead La Liga by four points, are also in the semi-finals of the Champions League. Already crowned Spanish Super Cup champions after a dominant 5-2 win over Madrid in January, they’ve also crushed their rivals 4-0 earlier this season in La Liga at the Bernabeu.
Now, with another Clasico on the horizon next month, Saturday’s Copa del Rey final could set the tone for the rest of the campaign—and cement Flick’s name in Barcelona’s history books.
“Real Madrid are a top team with one of the best managers in football,” Flick said. “Carlo Ancelotti is a true gentleman, and I have the utmost respect for him. But we are focused on lifting another trophy this weekend.”
Madrid Fighting for Pride and Silverware
Having been knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal, Real Madrid are desperate for a trophy to salvage their season. Despite trailing in La Liga and being outclassed by Barcelona in previous encounters, Ancelotti remains confident.
“They might be the favorites,” Ancelotti admitted, “but a final is unpredictable. We know what we’re capable of, especially in big moments.”
Madrid reached the final after edging past Real Sociedad in a thrilling semi-final, sealed by an extra-time goal from Antonio Rudiger. But injuries have taken their toll. Midfield powerhouse Eduardo Camavinga is out for the season, and although Kylian Mbappe missed their recent 1-0 win over Getafe, Ancelotti confirmed he should be fit to face Barcelona.
Injury Concerns on Both Sides
Barcelona will be without their top scorer Robert Lewandowski and left-back Alejandro Balde, forcing Flick to turn to youngster Gerard Martin, who could be targeted by Madrid’s attackers.
For Los Blancos, all eyes will be on Rodrygo to rediscover his scoring touch—he’s gone 11 games without a goal, but Ancelotti remains optimistic.
“He’s due,” the Madrid boss smiled. “And in games like these, he always delivers. I believe in him.”
When fully fit, Madrid’s frontline of Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo is electric, but it often leaves their defense exposed—something Barcelona could look to exploit.
Record at Stake
Barcelona are the record holders in Copa del Rey history with 31 titles. Athletic Bilbao follow with 24, while Madrid trail in third with 20. A win for Barcelona would bring them one step closer to an unprecedented quadruple and deepen their legacy as Spain’s most decorated club.
As the world turns its attention to La Cartuja Stadium, one thing is clear: this isn’t just another final. It’s a battle for history, pride, and supremacy in Spanish football.