How Real Madrid could lineup against Kairat Almaty in the Champions League

Matchday two of the 2025-26 Champions League comes at a perfect time for Real Madrid. Despite the lengthy trip of more than 6,400 kilometers from the Spanish capital to Almaty, the game offers the team a chance of redemption after Saturday’s humbling derby defeat. Kairat, at least on paper, offer a chance for Xabi Alonso to rotate with the Kazakh outfit the lowest ranked of the seven opponents Real Madrid will face in this opening league stage.

Madrid do go into the game with a problem at the back as Militao is still nursing an ankle injury from Saturday’s game. Rüdiger is still ruled out and as doubts still linger on Alaba’s fitness, Asencio will return to defensive duties and play alongside Huijsen.

With Carvajal ruled out (the defender is set to be sidelined for a month through injury) and Trent another recent casualty, Valverde will move to right back with Fran García set to be drafted in at left back with this quartet being supported by Courtois in goal.

Everything points to Tchouameni starting in midfield and the French player could be joined by Camavinga and Ceballos with Jude Bellingham also poised to return to the team from the start having completely recovered from his shoulder operation.

With Mbappé set to be rested (the French striker will start on the bench), Vinicius or Rodrygo will start in attack with their striking partner set to be one of Brahim or Gonzalo.

Possible Real Madrid XI against Kairat Almaty

Xabi Alonso’s possible side for the clash at the Almaty Central Stadium could see: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Fran García; Tchouameni, Camavinga, Ceballos, Bellingham; Brahim/Gonzalo; and Vinicius/ Rodrygo start.

Completing the expedition that has traveled to Kazakhstan are: Lunin, Javi Navarro, David Jiménez, Alaba, Carreras, Güler, Mastantuono, Mbappé, and Endrick.

Real Madrid’s absentees

Xabi Alonso has to contend with five currently injured players: Carvajal (who was also serving a one-match suspension for his expulsion against Marseille), Trent, Militao, Rüdiger and Mendy.

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