Following an entertaining UEFA Champions League quarter-final 1st leg against Manchester City, Real Madrid travel to Palma to take on RCD Mallorca at the Son Moix.
Changes are expected in the Real Madrid lineup from the midweek Champions League fixture. Although the squad named is a strong one, Ancelotti is expected to name a second-string side for this match.
Mainly because the men in white hold a significant 8-point lead in the league table, and have a crucial match awaiting them this Wednesday.
Eder Militao may start this match as he is in contention for the 2nd leg and requires game time. Moreover, minutes are also almost guaranteed for Lucas Vazquez, Brahim Diaz, Arda Guler and Joselu.
Here is how Real Madrid can lineup against Mallorca
Expected Line Up:
GK: Andriy Lunin
The Ukrainian shot-stopper had an underwhelming game against Manchester City. He would look to put that performance behind him and make a better effort in this game.
RB: Lucas Vazquez
He is expected to replace Dani Carvajal in the lineup. Lucas has proven to be an able replacement for his fellow countryman and has had some good moments this season.
CB: Eder Militao
The Brazilian will return to the lineup for the first time since the start of the league against Athletic Bilbao. He is expected to play the most minutes to get ready and have some game time behind him for the important game at the Etihad next week.
CB: Nacho
The Spaniard will captain the side in Carvajal’s absence. He has been slightly below average this season and would want to put in a better show at the Son Moix.
LB: Ferland Mendy
The Frenchman has been underrated this season, putting in some solid defensive performances but leaving a lot to be desired in the attacking phases.
CDM: Aurelien Tchouameni
The French defensive midfielder is suspended for the 2nd leg against Manchester City and hence is in contention to start this game. Whenever he has started this season, Real Madrid have been unbeaten.
CM: Fede Valverde
The Uruguayan was named in the Champions League team of the week after a splendid performance. It can be argued that he should be rested for Dani Ceballos, it will not be a surprise if he starts as the squad has had an ample break at the start of this month.
CM: Luka Modric
The Croatian put in a game-changing performance after coming on in the 72nd minute in the midweek game against the Blues. He would look to continue his form in this fixture as well.
CAM: Brahim Diaz
He has shown glimpses of his brilliance and proven to be a good backup for Jude Bellingham. The Englishman is expected to be rested for this game and Brahim would want to make a case for himself for the upcoming games of the season.
ST: Joselu
Rodrygo picked up a knock and did not train with the team on Friday; hence, Joselu will take his place. The veteran striker has missed big chances during the games he has played this season but still has got 8 league goals and two assists. It would be good motivation for him to contribute to the team’s victory against Mallorca.
ST: Vinicius Junior
The Brazilian has been in fabulous form in the league and Europe. He can cause problems for Mallorca’s defense that specializes in keeping a low block and being stubborn. Vinicius may be replaced with Arda Guler later on in the match.
