The reigning European champions, Real Madrid, return to the competition they love most as the Spanish side will lock horns against VfB Stuttgart in their first game of the UEFA Champions League at the Santiago Bernabeu.
After an injury Brahim Díaz ruled him out for the next 2-3 months, Los Blancos were boosted by the news of Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouaméni returning to the squad. Both the players are in line to slot directly into the lineup for tonight’s fixture, partnering up with Fede Valverde in the midfield.
Kylian Mbappe will make his Champions League debut with Real Madrid, already boasting an impressive record in this competition with 48 goals in 73 appearances.
The Frenchman was the leading goal scorer last season, receiving the Champions League golden boot. He would be eager to replicate a similar or have an even better season and finally win the trophy that has evaded him for so long.
As far as the defence is concerned, Real Madrid were on the receiving end of an injury scare to Eder Militao, who was seen training alone on the pitch. However, Carlo Ancelotti in the pre-match presser reaffirmed that the Brazilian was fine and would start the match 100%.
Speaking of their opponents, VfB Stuttgart make a return to the competition after some time, having last played the Champions League in 2009/10. They enter the competition on the back of a fairytale Bundesliga season where they finished 2nd with 73 points – 1 point ahead of Bayern Munich.
However, the German side’s star striker, Serhou Guirassy, who scored 30 goals in 30 games in all competitions, departed the club for a move to Borussia Dortmund.
They bolstered their attack with the signing of Ermedin Demirović and made the loan of Denis Undav a permanent deal while making reinforcements in other positions as well. Although Sebastian Hoeness’ side have had a slow start to this season, Real Madrid would be aware that the Germans cannot be taken lightly.
It all sets up for an exciting showdown as Stuttgart hope to spring a surprise at the Bernabeu, while Los Blancos look to begin their journey to the 16th, with a win.
