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Central defender absences take center stage in el clásico

The potential absences, fitness, and overall health of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid’s top defenders are in question as el clásico draws near.

For Barcelona, Gerard Piqué is in a race for fitness ahead of the consequential La Liga clash. The defender has been out with a knee injury last month, but he is making an effort to be available for the big game.

However, it is understood that if Piqué were to be included in the matchday squad, it would be a last-minute decision. And, he would have to play through the pain barrier.