McManaman expects Real Madrid to overcome Vinicius absence in El Clasico

Steve McManaman has predicted a 3-1 victory for Real Madrid against Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico at Spotify Camp Nou.

The former Real Madrid midfielder made his assessment in an interview with 365Scores, with his comments subsequently published by Sport.

“I expect Real Madrid to win 3-1, but we will see what happens,” McManaman said. “This match always goes beyond predictions.”

He expects a highly competitive encounter, arguing that both sides have the quality required to settle major matches. McManaman believes the outcome could be decided by small details, particularly the way each team takes its chances and responds to pressure during the decisive moments.

The former England international also highlighted the significance of Vinicius Junior’s absence for Real Madrid. He said the Brazilian’s speed and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations allow him to change the course of a match.

“He will be a huge miss,” McManaman said. “Vinicius can change games because of his pace and his ability in individual battles with defenders.”

McManaman does not believe Kylian Mbappe can replace everything Vinicius brings simply by coming into the team.

“Mbappe has great ability, of course, but they are completely different players,” he said. “You cannot replace everything Vinicius offers just by putting another player in his place.”

As a result, McManaman said Jose Mourinho would need to find the right tactical solution to ensure Real Madrid remain an attacking threat without their Brazilian forward.

The former Real Madrid player also backed Mbappe ahead of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in the race for the Ballon d’Or.

“I would choose Mbappe,” McManaman said. “He is a player who can make the difference and score goals in the biggest matches, and he has enough experience to help him deal with pressure.”

McManaman was also full of praise for Yamal, but maintained his preference for Mbappe when asked to choose between the two players.

“Yamal is an exceptionally talented player and has produced outstanding performances despite his young age,” he said. “But if I had to choose between the two of them now, I would vote for Mbappe.”

The match at Spotify Camp Nou is therefore being viewed by McManaman as a contest in which Real Madrid’s response to Vinicius Junior’s absence could prove important, although he acknowledged that the nature of El Clasico makes the final outcome difficult to predict.