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Ernesto Valverde explains why Sergio Busquets missed El Clasico

The midfielder was originally named in the starting XI

FC Barcelona v Real Madrid CF - La Liga Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde explained why Sergio Busquets missed El Clasico on Wednesday despite originally being named in the starting XI.

The 31-year-old’s name was on the original teamsheet for the clash but was then replaced by Ivan Rakitic and there was some confusion as to why he missed out.

Reports before kick-off claimed he was ill, but Valverde’s assistant Jon Aspiazu said before the match it was a “technical decision.”

Valverde was asked about Busi after the 0-0 draw at the Camp Nou and made it clear the midfielder was not 100 per cent.

Rakitic started the game alongside Sergi Roberto and Frenkie de Jong in midfield.

Valverde did make changes in the second half in midfield, bringing on Arturo Vidal for Nelson Semedo with Roberto dropping back to right-back.

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