As Barcelona brace themselves for a high-stakes El Clasico at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, club legend Rivaldo has delivered a powerful message to Hansi Flick’s squad: now is the time to show their character.

The Blaugrana are reeling from their painful UEFA Champions League exit at the hands of Inter Milan, a result that has left fans and players alike searching for redemption. But Rivaldo, the 1999 Ballon d’Or winner, insists that Sunday’s showdown against Real Madrid is a golden opportunity to bounce back.

“What cannot happen is to be eliminated from the Champions League and then lose at home to Madrid,” Rivaldo warned, pointing out the psychological importance of this fixture for the club.

Despite the heartbreak of European failure, the Brazilian icon believes the timing of the El Clasico couldn’t be more perfect. He explained, “It’s very good for the players to have a game like this to turn things around. It comes at the right moment. If it were against a mid-tier team, I think there would be risks, but against Real Madrid, the motivation is there.”

For Rivaldo, the weight of the occasion should inspire rather than overwhelm. He called on the team to rise to the challenge: “It’s time to get to work because there’s no turning back. What cannot happen is to be eliminated from the Champions League and lose to Real Madrid at home. Based on everything the players have done this season, they don’t deserve to lose this League, nor this match against Madrid.”

With the La Liga title race on a knife-edge, this game could decide everything. A win would give Barcelona a seven-point cushion over their eternal rivals, potentially sealing the title before the final weeks of the campaign. “The players need to go all out because this is a game that could win them the title,” Rivaldo declared. “Even though it’s not mathematically certain, winning would give them a seven-point lead, and they’d practically be champions.”

The former Barcelona No.10 also believes the bitter taste of the Champions League defeat should now be channelled into positive energy. “The first few days hurt. Then, training starts, the coach talks to the players, and they understand that there’s nothing more to be done. Luckily, the next opponent is Real Madrid. That motivates them.”

El Clasico is always massive, but this one feels different. For a Barcelona side determined to end the season with silverware and pride, Rivaldo’s words are more than just motivation – they are a challenge. Sunday is not just about three points. It’s about redemption, resilience, and a reminder that Barcelona still know how to fight.