Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faces a challenging situation ahead of the upcoming match against Leganes. With multiple injuries affecting key players, the lineup for this game could be one of the most uncertain of the season.
The match will be the first without Lucas Vazquez, who has been sidelined along with Rodryo and Eder Militao. These injuries occurred during the team’s previous league match against Osasuna, adding to the club’s list of injury concerns.
In addition, Dani Carvajal and David Alaba are also unavailable, leaving Ancelotti with few options.
Another key absence is Aurelien Tchouameni, a crucial player in the defensive setup. His absence will make it even more difficult for Ancelotti to manage the team’s defensive strategy.
The injuries to these important players are undoubtedly a significant setback for the team, but they are not the only challenges Ancelotti has to consider.
Many players have just returned from international duty, which could affect their fitness levels.
With the crucial Champions League match against Liverpool just three days after the Leganes game, Ancelotti will have to balance his squad’s physical readiness and avoid overloading them before such an important fixture.
Given the circumstances, here’s an overview of how the team might line up against Leganes, despite the uncertainty surrounding the availability of players.
Defence
Thibaut Courtois is set to make his return to the starting lineup after missing the previous matches, including the El Clasico and the defeat to Milan. His return means that Andriy Lunin, who has been standing in for Courtois, will return to the bench.
In the right-back position, Federico Valverde will likely remain the best option available to Ancelotti, given the lack of alternatives in this position.
The central defence pair will likely consist of Raul Asencio and Antonio Rudiger. Asencio, although not a regular starter in this position, has been filling in well and will be expected to take on a significant role.
Rudiger, on the other hand, is more experienced and will be looking to provide the necessary stability at the back. Meanwhile, Ferland Mendy will keep his position as the left-back, as he continues to perform decently in this role.
Midfield
With Valverde being shifted to the right-back position, the midfield will see some changes. Eduardo Camavinga is expected to take over as the defensive pivot.
Camavinga has shown his versatility in the past and will be tasked with shielding the defence and maintaining control of the midfield. This leaves a gap in the creative and attacking positions, which will likely be filled by Jude Bellingham.
Furthermore, Luka Modric will once again take on the role of distributing the ball and providing the necessary creativity in the midfield.
His experience and vision make him indispensable, and he will be key to controlling the game. However, it seems that both Arda Guler and Dani Ceballos will start from the bench.
Guler, the promising young Turkish midfielder, has yet to cement a regular starting place in the squad, and Ceballos, despite being a strong backup option, is expected to provide support from the sidelines.
Attack
With Rodrygo unavailable due to injury, Brahim Diaz will likely step in as the natural replacement on the right wing. Diaz has shown glimpses of his potential and will have a big opportunity to make an impact in this match.
On the left, Vinicius Jr. will continue to provide a threat, as his pace and dribbling ability remain crucial to Madrid’s attacking play.
Kylian Mbappe, on his part, will once again be deployed as the centre-forward. Mbappe’s presence up front will be vital for the team’s attacking cohesion, and Ancelotti will be looking to him to lead the charge.
