Just a few days ago, Real Madrid dominated Espanyol 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Merengues are now preparing to take on Alavés on match day 7 on Tuesday.
A heavily rotated lineup took the field against Espanyol and that may stay the same for this upcoming fixture as well.
Dani Carvajal was substituted just a minute after he scored and is subsequently not named in the squad for the match against Alavés. Real Madrid Castilla’s David Jiménez has been called up to replace the veteran right-back.
After coming off the bench and putting on a sensational show, Vinicius is expected to start this match.
Endrick was also in line for a starting spot but the Brazilian received a hit in training and is in doubt. Carlo Ancelotti was looking to rest Kylian Mbappe before the Madrid derby but now it seems the Italian will have to change his plan.
Jude Bellingham was not supposed to take a huge part in this game but the Englishman’s eagerness to play – with a shoulder strap – can lead Ancelotti to hand him a start against Alaves.
Overall, Los Blancos arguably played their best game of the season against Espanyol and would look to build upon it ahead of the Madrid derby and other important fixtures. Even Ancelotti believes, that after a slow start to the season, his side is on a good run.
Alavés, on the other hand, are off to a surprisingly decent start with three wins out of six, sitting at 7th in the La Liga points table. Their most recent victory was a narrow call, as they overcame Sevilla 2-1, at the Mendizorroza.
What makes them a side not be taken lightly is the fact that it has been a team effort and not just one player standing out. Mainly Carlo Vicente, Toni Martinez, Nahuel Tenaglia have contributed on the attacking front, with Joan Jordan and former Castilla midfielder Antonio Blanco also making useful contributions.
This match will in no way be a cakewalk for the Merengues and Alavés will be eager to surprise their opponents while, Real Madrid will hope to extend their unbeaten run in La Liga.