ATLÉTICO - REAL MADRID
Possible starting lineup for Real Madrid against Atlético in Madrid derby
Ancelotti is expected to modify the team who played against Union Berlin in the Champions League as Vinicius returns to the squad, but will start from the bench.
The intensity level on Real Madrid’s season cranks up a notch after Los Blancos enjoyed a relatively placid start to the season physically (one game a week). Last Wednesday the midweek action began with the start of the group stage of the Champions League and now Ancelotti’s men face a demanding schedule with two games a week.
Madrid make the short distance to the Civitas Metropolitano to face Atlético on Sunday with a 3:00 p.m. (ET) start and the Italian is expected to field a starting eleven that varies from that of the European premiere four days ago.
The good news for Madridistas is the return to the squad of Vinicius, with the Brazilian set for a place on the bench. “If there is a 1% risk, he will not play,” Ancelotti said in a press conference when asked about the winger.
Jude Bellingham has now fully recovered from his stomach problems and is set to start. Kepa will man the sticks with Lucas Vázquez. The Galician will be partnered by Rüdiger and Alaba in the centre with the pacy Fran Garcia on the left flank.
Heart of the team
Kroos’ good performances in recent games could relegate Tchouaméni to the bench. The Frenchman started the season in good shape, but has lost is way slightly in the last two games. Valverde and Camavinga are also expected to start at the Metropolitano. Bellingham will try to provide the link between the centre of the park and forward line with the English international looking to add to his spectacular opening to the 2023-24 for his new club. The Stourbridge born player has bagged five games in six games for ‘Los Blancos’.
Joselu and Rodrygo will lead the line for Ancelotti’s men with the Brazilian failing to find the net since the league debut against Athletic Club (12 August), more than a month ago. The Spaniard, scored against Getafe and Real Sociedad in LaLga last weekend and came close on a number of times against Union in Champions, but luck was not on his side.
Real Madrid: possible XI vs. Atletico Madrid (24 September)
Kepa; Lucas, Rüdiger, Alaba, Fran García; Valverde, Kroos, Camavinga; Bellingham; Joselu and Rodrygo.