Following a nervy aggregate victory against Leipzig in the Champions League, Real Madrid return to league action to take on Celta Vigo at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Merengues would want to assert their dominance on the league table by securing the 3 points against 17th-placed Rafael Benítez’ Os Celestes.
The men in white will be without Jude Bellingham as he was suspended for two games after being shown a red card against Valencia. Vinícius Júnior is expected to be the mainstay in attack in Jude’s absence.
Here is how Real Madrid can line up against Celta Vigo.
Expected lineup:
GK: Andriy Lunin
The Ukrainian shot-stopper was one of the main reasons why Real Madrid did not concede more against Leipzig and has really made the goalkeeping position his own in Thibaut Courtois’ absence.
RB: Lucas Vázquez
Dani Carvajal is expected to be on the bench and will make way for Lucas Vázquez. The Spaniard has been fairly decent in the appearances he has made this season but would want to be more solid defensively.
CB: Antonio Rüdiger
The German was at his best in the game against Leipzig and prevented many shots at goal which could have proven to be costly. Against 17th-placed Celta Vigo, he would not want to commit any mistakes.
CB: Nacho
The captain blew hot and cold in the Champions League fixture as the goal conceded could have been easily avoided. But he would have to be at the top of his game as Celta Vigo are fighting to avoid relegation and will be hungry for goals.
LB: Fran García
The Spanish national has shown glimpses of his ability throughout the season but has not really been consistent. He will have a chance today and would look to link up better with Vinícius on his flank while also performing his defensive duties.
CDM: Aurelien Tchouaméni
He has been a mainstay of the team for most part of the season, proving to be one of the most important members. The Frenchman has put in his duties as center-back too. He will be starting the game in his natural position in midfield.
CM: Fede Valverde
The Uruguayan has been a machine in the midfield and has not shown any signs of slowing down whatsoever. Always puts in the hard yards and has proven to be one of the best players in his position in Europe at the moment.
CM: Luka Modrić
The last time the Croatian started a game this season was more than two months ago against Mallorca. He is going through a great run of form following his goal against Sevilla and that may reward him with a start today. He is eager to show his value and these games might help him make a decision regarding his future with a renewal not ruled out just yet.
CAM: Brahim Díaz
Brahim has proven that he is the best possible replacement of Bellingham in this lineup and has shown glimpses of his abilities that made him stand out at AC Milan. He would look to add more to his tally of 8 goals and 4 assists this season.
ST: Rodrygo
Although going through a lean patch of form, the Brazilian injected some energy into the team in the 2nd half against RB Leipzig, despite not being involved in the goal.
ST: Vinícius Júnior
The Brazilian star has been one of the best players this season and Ancelotti has always trusted him to score goals, especially in Jude’s absence. He is expected to extend his purple patch and be amongst the goals yet again.