Real Madrid confirmed starting lineup against Monaco in the Champions League

Top eight depends on winning. Real Madrid sit on 12 points, and last season the cutoff was 16. The trajectory this year looks similar, so the math is simple: win now and take the gamble in Lisbon. A slip-up against Monaco would be check – almost checkmate. That leaves little room for rotation. And there isn’t much depth anyway. Arbeloa has seven absences – Trent, Militão, Rüdiger, Carreras (suspension), Mendy, Brahim and Rodrygo – so with 17 first-team players and three academy call-ups, it’s all-in against Monaco. To battle.

The context allows for very few juggling acts. Courtois will start in goal, but with a reshaped back line. Valverde is expected at right back – Carvajal has played only 14 minutes since October 26 – with Asencio and Huijsen forming the central pairing, and Fran García on the left. Carreras will not be on the pitch after picking up his third yellow card against Manchester City, with Camavinga surprisingly starting at left-back. In midfield, Güler has been selected alongside Tchouaméni and Bellingham.

Mastantuono picked ahead of Gonzalo

Up front, the picture is similar. Two starters are locked in. Vinicius will play on the left, publicly backed by Arbeloa in his press conference: “He’ll be on the field whenever he’s available and performing at the level he’s showing.” Mbappé will lead the line, his left knee continuing to respond exceptionally well. The question mark was on the right wing, and Mastantuono has been given the nod ahead of Gonzalo.

That leaves a Real Madrid XI against Monaco of:

Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Huijsen, Camavinga; Tchouaméni, Güler, Bellingham; Mastantuono, Mbappé, Vinicius.

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