El Clasico: 5 Barcelona players who will be key figures

Messi went down after landing badly on his right arm: Sevilla vs Barcelona

#1 Marc Andre Ter Stegen

Barcelona’s No.1 has always been a vital part of their success. Perhaps, the second best player in the squad after Lionel Messi, Marc Ter Stegen is one of the most underrated goalkeepers in the world. His performances always go unnoticed and he isn’t considered in the same bracket as De Gea or Courtois.

Ter Stegen has shown his class and his ability to hold together the defence on a lot of occasions. He played as if his life was on the line against Sevilla, denying four to five, clear goal scoring opportunities to the Andalusian side. He was perfect with his reflexes, his dives and his strong hands against Sevilla, making a double-save in two different occasions.

Even against Real Sociedad, Ter Stegen was the difference between the two sides. The blue and white rained attempts on the Barcelona keeper but he didn’t let a ball past him, letting Barcelona hold on to the one-goal lead. Ernesto Valverde’s defensive tactics will only increase pressure on the German, if and when Barcelona take the lead.

The German has to be wary of a lot on Sunday. Particularly, the close range shots from Bale and Asensio, which he is used to dealing from the past Clasicos. Sergio Ramos’ inch-perfect headers are another dangerous threat to his goal. And if these aren’t enough, Luka Modric is capable or letting loose a few long shots and Isco’s free-kicks will be there.

The German has to continue on his fiery form and hope for full support from the back four.

Edited by Debjyoti Samanta