Real Madrid possible starting XI against Atlético Madrid in LaLiga

The penultimate match of LaLiga’s eighth round features the Madrid derby between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid (Sunday 29 September, 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT.).

Notably, this is the only match Real Madrid lost last season, with their red-and-white rivals defeating them 3-1. Since then, Ancelotti’s side has gone unbeaten in 39 league games, inching closer to Barcelona’s record of 43 consecutive unbeaten matches. Interestingly, if Real Madrid avoid defeat against Villarreal and Celta in their upcoming fixtures, they could match that record in a face-off against Barcelona.

Ancelotti’s squad head to the Metropolitano with a strong run of results, though their recent performances have been less convincing. In their last match against Alavés (3-2), two late goals by the side from Vitoria caused anxiety among fans, players, and the coaching staff. A slip-up against Atlético would create a gap between them and Barcelona, potentially weakening their title challenge.

Ancelotti ‘doesn’t focus on formations’

As usual, Ancelotti was reluctant to reveal his starting eleven against the colchoneros, but the growing list of absentees suggests it will be a familiar lineup. Mbappé's injury likely means Madrid will deploy four midfielders, with Vinicius and Rodrygo leading the attack.

The Italian coach himself explained how the French striker’s absence impacts the team: “Without Mbappé, things change slightly, but not significantly. It’s unfortunate he’s unavailable, but we can adapt well. I don’t focus too much on formations. A 4-3-3 can easily shift to a 4-4-2 with the same players. With three attackers, it could become a 4-4-2, with Vinicius or Rodrygo playing wide. What I want is for the team to show unity and commitment,” he said during the pre-match press conference.

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Alongside Mbappé, Alaba, Brahim, and Ceballos are also out of the squad. While Alaba and Ceballos are expected to return soon, Brahim will be sidelined until the end of the year. Carvajal, who missed the match against Alavés after picking up a knock against Espanyol and was rested, is set to return. Meanwhile, Camavinga, who has yet to feature this season due to an injury sustained on August 13 during training before the UEFA Super Cup final, has also rejoined the squad. He’s likely to start on the bench but could see some action as the game progresses.

Ancelotti’s probable starting eleven for the derby includes: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rüdiger, Mendy; Valverde, Tchouaméni, Modric, Bellingham; Rodrygo, and Vinícius. The coach has called up 20 players for the match, with Lunin, Fran González, Lucas Vázquez, Vallejo, Fran García, Jacobo, Camavinga, Güler, and Endrick completing the squad. Notably, right-back David Jiménez has been dropped, while center-back Jacobo Ramón, who recently returned from a thigh injury, remains in the squad.

As mentioned, Ancelotti faces four key absences for the derby. In addition to Mbappé, Ceballos, Brahim, and Alaba will miss the match. Mbappé is expected to return in about three weeks, likely for the clash against Celta on October 19. Alaba and Ceballos are both progressing well and should be available in the coming weeks. However, Brahim faces the longest layoff and is not expected to return until the end of the year due to an injury to his right adductor longus.

The following channels will be broadcasting the game live in the US: ESPN+, ESPN App and ESPN Deportes. As well as that, you can also catch the game on Fubo, where you’ll be able to get a free trial. However, you can be sure not to miss a moment of the action by joining our live text commentary right here on AS USA, with our very own Paul Reidy on the case. Build up begins around an hour before kick-off.