The clock continues to tick, as the much-awaited ‘European Clasico’ between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid takes place at the Allianz Arena this Tuesday.
Carlo Ancelotti announced a full squad to travel to Germany, including the injured Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba. However, neither of these players will be able to feature in the upcoming game as Alaba is still recovering from his ACL tear, while Courtois is not ready to get on the pitch yet, despite his return to training.
Real Madrid Castilla’s Puerto Rican winger, Jeremy De Leon, was also part of the contingent that landed in Munich, despite the fact that he remains unregistered for this competition.
Except for Dani Carvajal, who will be missing this game due to a yellow card received in the 2nd leg at the Etihad, there are no notable absentees.
Here is how Real Madrid can line up against Bayern Munich.
Expected Line Up:
GK: Andriy Lunin
After putting on a display for the ages against Manchester City and also playing a part in the thriller against FC Barcelona, the Ukrainian returns to the lineup after being rested for the weekend fixture. He would look to continue his form and win the battle of goalkeepers against the legendary Manuel Neuer.
RB: Lucas Vazquez
The Spaniard replaces Dani Carvajal in the lineup. Lucas has recently been enjoying a great run of form. He put in a decent shift against Manchester City at the Etihad, followed by an all-round performance against FC Barcelona.
The right-back’s defensive capabilities are expected to be tested when he comes up against the likes of Raphaël Guerreiro, Jamal Musiala, and most probably, Alphonso Davies as well.
CB: Antonio Rüdiger
Arguably the best center-back in the world right now. He allowed Haaland just 11 touches across both legs and scored the winning penalty as well, ensuring Madrid’s qualification. The German will be up against one of the best strikers in football, Harry Kane. It would be a stern test because, unlike Haaland, Kane is experienced and knows how to win such battles.
CB: Aurélien Tchouaméni
Real Madrid continue to be unbeaten this season whenever this French defensive midfielder starts a game. His partnership with Rüdiger has been successful, with the Merengues not losing a single game with this pairing. He would look to continue his purple patch and extend the unbeaten record.
LB: Ferland Mendy
Perhaps the most underrated player in the squad. Carlo Ancelotti has labeled him as the best defensive full-back in the world – and rightfully so. It is not easy to get past him and he would look to make life difficult for the Bayern attack.
CDM: Eduardo Camavinga
An able replacement for his fellow French compatriot, the 21-year-old also played an important part in cutting City’s passing lanes in the 2nd leg as Real Madrid pulled off a defensive masterclass. His job would be to do the same in this match as well, without making any mistakes which the team may have to pay for.
CM: Fede Valverde
In a team with so many stars, it would not be wrong to say that Valverde is the most important player in the side. Playing a part in almost every game this season, the Uruguayan has proven to be an engine in the midfield. The battle against Leon Goretzka promises to be an exciting one.
CM: Toni Kroos
The German returns to quite a familiar place! He has extended his contract and also taken back his national retirement. With the form he is going through, he had all the right to do so. Amidst all the chaos, he provides stability and control in the middle of the pitch and that is exactly what is required for tomorrow’s match.
CAM: Jude Bellingham
Although the tie against City was not the best he has played, the Englishman offered more than just goals and assists in the 2nd leg, showcasing his versatility. Talking about goals, Jude returned to goalscoring form last week and would want to add more to his tally.
ST: Rodrygo
After a quiet few months this season, Rodrygo reinvigorated himself, turning into the quick, pacy winger we all know. Scored in both legs against City and is the team’s leading goal scorer in the European competition this season.
But his task will be cut out as the Brazilian will come up against a stubborn Bayern defense as they showed their solidity against Arsenal. To deal with the defense, he may look to cause them trouble and switch the wings with Viní constantly throughout the game.
ST: Vinícius Júnior
Known as the ‘big game’ player and has certainly lived up to that tag this season. Already has 3 goals and 4 assists in 7 Champions League appearances and an increase in that tally is on the charts.
The Brazilian would look to make his first trip to Allianz Arena a memorable one. Noteworthy, the fans would have their eyes locked onto his duel with Joshua Kimmich, who is expected to give him a tough time.
