Right Midfielder: Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)
Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong was one of the few bright spots during another tough campaign for the Blaugrana last season. He has continued in the same vein in the current campaign too.
A versatile midfielder blessed with incredible passing ability, the Dutchman also reads the game brilliantly and makes dangerous offensive runs through the middle. He has bagged two assists in La Liga so far, and will look to make an impact against Real Madrid.
Defensive Midfielder: Casemiro (Real Madrid)
Casemiro has left us exhausted of superlatives. He's indispensable as Real Madrid's midfield anchor, and over the years, he has carved himself into a cult figure among the club's faithful.
His ability to provide balance to the side allows the likes of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to roam forward freely. Casemiro also distributes the ball accurately after winning back possession.
Defensive Midfielder: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona)
Sergio Busquets may no longer be the force he once was, but the Spaniard remains a key player for Barcelona. His wealth of experience has been the guiding light for many Barcelona young players.
Busquets could play a key role against Real Madrid. He has made 40 appearances across competitions against Los Blancos, the most he has played against a single team.
The 33-year-old still stands out for his technical ability and unsurpassed reading of the game. He times his tackles to perfection, helping his side break opposition plays, and has registered an 86% pass completion rate in La Liga this season.
Left Midfielder: Luka Modric (Real Madrid)
Age is just a number for Luka Modric, who, at 36, continues to play as if he's still in his heydays. His work rate would put younger players to shame. Suffice to say, Modric can change the course of games at the drop of a hat.
A quick and creative playmaker with great vision, Modric can break teams open with his deft passes. He also possesses a keen eye for goal. His long-range efforts are well-documented. Modric scored an outrageous goal against Barcelona on his last visit to the Camp Nou.