Introduction

As Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to clash in the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final, the spotlight shifts to the key players from both teams. ESPN correspondents Sam Marsden and Alex Kirkland have engaged in discussions to determine a combined XI based on current player form.

Key Players Identified

Both coaches, Hansi Flick of Barcelona and Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid, lead squads filled with some of the world’s elite players. In their discussions, Marsden pointed out that five players emerged as clear choices due to their performances this season.

• Thibaut Courtois (Goalkeeper)
• Jules Koundé (Right-back)
• Alejandro Balde (Left-back)
• Pedri (Midfielder)
• Lamine Yamal (Forward)

While Koundé and Balde have solidified their places, discussions regarding center backs led to evaluations of various defenders including Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, and Antonio Rüdiger.

Defense Selection Debate

When it came to selecting defenders, both analysts agreed on a robust foundation. Kirkland noted the effectiveness of Barcelona’s defense and suggested that Martínez has had notable performances this season, while Marsden highlighted Cubarsí and Martínez due to their significant contributions.

Midfield Dynamics

The midfield positions were another point of contention. While Marsden proposed pairing Valverde, Bellingham, and Pedri, Kirkland favored Valverde alongside Pedri, citing Valverde’s versatility and impact on the game.

Both correspondents acknowledged the strong performances of players like Dani Olmo, Gavi, and others but ultimately settled on a midfield that harnesses the strengths of current form.

Forward Line Conundrum

The forward positions incited lively debate regarding who should take the pivotal roles. Marsden advocated for Raphinha and Lewandowski as strong contenders, while Kirkland emphasized Kylian Mbappé’s consistent performance as crucial for Real Madrid’s attack.

Despite Lewandowski’s impressive goal tally this season, Kirkland’s preference for Mbappé spoke volumes about the forward’s influence in crucial matches.

Combined XI Selections

Sam Marsden’s Combined XI

• GK: Thibaut Courtois
• DF: Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, Alejandro Balde
• MF: Fede Valverde, Pedri, Jude Bellingham
• FW: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski

Alex Kirkland’s Combined XI

• GK: Thibaut Courtois
• DF: Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Antonio Rüdiger, Alejandro Balde
• MF: Fede Valverde, Pedri, Jude Bellingham
• FW: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Kylian Mbappé

Conclusion

The discussions surrounding the selection of a combined XI for such a monumental match underscore the caliber of talent on display in the Copa del Rey final. Both teams promise a thrilling contest as they vie for the trophy, underpinned by the exceptional skills of their players.