Real Madrid starting lineup against Real Sociedad: Game 4 of LaLiga

Real Madrid are back after the international break with a demanding trip to Anoeta to face Real Sociedad – a duel that may look less daunting given the Basque side’s poor start to the season, but one that rarely comes easy in San Sebastián. Xabi Alonso is expected to field his strongest lineup, though mindful that on Tuesday Madrid begin their Champions League campaign at home against Marseille.

What is Real Madrid’s team for La Real?

The late injury to Antonio Rüdiger in training has slightly altered Alonso’s plans. The German had been in line to start, with Éder Militão initially penciled in for the Marseille clash. Instead, the Brazilian will start at Anoeta, partnered by 19-year-old Yarek Huijsen in central defense. Trent and Carreras will slot in as full-backs, with Thibaut Courtois undisputed between the posts.

In midfield, little changes: Aurélien Tchouaméni as holding midfielder, with Arda Güler and Federico Valverde as interiors. There’s also the possibility of Tchouaméni and Valverde forming a double pivot, with Güler pushed higher up as a playmaker. With Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga sidelined, Alonso’s options are limited for now – rotations in midfield will only begin when they return.

Up front, a possible tweak could see Madrid unleash their trident: Rodrygo, Vinícius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé. Alonso hinted at it in his press conference, and this seems a good occasion. Mbappé is untouchable, and both Brazilians remained in Madrid during the break, training at Valdebebas. By contrast, Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz – usually in contention for starts – return fatigued from international duty, making the rest strategy logical.

Real Madrid’s likely starting XI at Anoeta: Courtois; Trent, Militão, Huijsen, Carreras; Güler, Tchouaméni, Valverde; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinícius.

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