5 players who can light up El Clasico in place of Ronaldo and Messi

#1 Philippe Coutinho

Coutinho is in good form ahead of the Clasico

Philippe Coutinho appears to be the only midfielder in the list of players who could dominate the Clasico in the absence of Ronaldo and Messi. The Brazilian is a world-class player and a lot will be expected from him when he tastes Clasico football for just the second time since joining the Blaugrana.

The absence of Messi and Ronaldo is bound to take a bit of the spark off this game, but with players like Coutino around, the game will definitely not be short of talent at all. The former Liverpool midfielder is known for scoring amazing long-range goals and just one of such moments will undoubtedly light up the Clasico.

After all, it is such magical moments that distinguish games like the Clasico from other ‘normal’ matches. Messi’s injury means Coutinho is likely to be pushed up front to play on the left side of the attacking three.

Against Sevilla, he blossomed in that position and he should have no problem replicating such a performance against Madrid on Sunday, especially with Messi and Ronaldo not going to feature.