Former Real Madrid forward Julio Baptista has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Clásico in an interview with Marca, offering perspective from someone who not only played in these games but also left a lasting mark — particularly with his unforgettable winner at the Camp Nou in 2007.
When asked whether the most difficult part of a Clásico is playing it or managing the pre-game nerves, Baptista downplayed both. “I don’t think it’s either of those two,” he said. “In a game like this, the player is already
prepared from the week he’s been training. It’s a very important game, with a lot of expectation, and all the players want to do well.”
For Baptista, success in such a high-pressure environment comes down to balance and preparation. “It’s important to stay calm, to focus on what the coach wants, and to arrive in the best possible condition,” he explained. “If a player has any discomfort, he’s not at 100%. When you’re perfect physically and mentally, that’s when you give your best.”
The Brazilian, who featured for both Real Madrid and Arsenal during his career, also reflected on how this new generation of stars is reshaping the rivalry once dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. “Each generation is different,” he said. “Lamine Yamal is a very talented player. On Madrid’s side, they have Kylian [Mbappé] and Vinícius — incredible players as well. Each one has their own strengths and characteristics, and I hope they can all show their best in a game like this.”
“My Goal at the Camp Nou Was Something Special”
Madrid fans will forever remember Baptista’s decisive strike in the 2007 Clásico at the Camp Nou — a goal that sealed a 1-0 win in a hostile environment. “It was incredible,” he recalled. “To score in a game like that, at the opponent’s stadium where we hadn’t won in a long time, was very special. People still remember it, and that means a lot to me.”
Baptista sees parallels between that era and Real Madrid’s current situation, with Los Blancos looking to bounce back from four consecutive defeats to Barcelona. “Madrid is making adjustments,” he said. “They’ve changed coaches, and with Xabi [Alonso], they now have a different approach. Hopefully they can play a complete game, with no doubts, and win at home in front of their fans.”
“You Can’t Waste Chances in Games Like These”
Reflecting on recent Clásicos, Baptista emphasized the importance of efficiency in front of goal. “Football is about details,” he noted. “I was at last year’s game at Montjuïc. If Real Madrid had been more clinical in the first half, it could have been 3-0. In these games, you can’t make mistakes — when you have a chance, you must score. Hopefully this Madrid team is sharper in front of goal.”
On Lamine Yamal’s Controversial Comments
Baptista also weighed in on the young Barcelona forward’s recent remarks suggesting that “Real Madrid steal and complain.” The former Madrid man urged for more respect and less controversy around referees. “These kinds of statements need to be eliminated because they’re not helpful, especially to referees,” he said. “Referees shouldn’t be the main actors — the players should be. Their job is hard enough as it is, and we should try to take pressure off them so they can officiate correctly.”
