CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Real Madrid possible starting XI against Lille in the UEFA Champions League
Carlo Ancelotti goes into the second game of the UCL league format with a number of team questions to be decided upon.
“If there’s no risk, he can start.” Carlo Ancelotti waited until the end to deliver the most significant update, at least in terms of sporting news, during a press conference filled with evasive answers. The derby, rather than the match against Lille, naturally dominated the conversation. The statement was about Kylian Mbappé, whose recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. Initially expected to be out for three weeks, he has returned after just one.
Will Mbappé play for Real Madrid against Lille?
The final decision will be made on the morning of the match.
“Mbappé is here to play,” was Ancelotti’s other key comment about the French forward. While doubts linger, it seems likely we’ll see some minutes from the number 9, although expecting him to start might be overly optimistic.
The other uncertainty lies in the defense.
“We’re going to rotate the centre-backs,” Ancelotti stated, something he has had in mind for a while. However, defensive limitations and physical issues have made it difficult to implement. The option of dropping Tchouaméni back into defense to give a rest to the overworked Éder Militão is gaining traction. The Brazilian had to return prematurely from the last international break due to a minor right thigh issue. His quick recovery minimized his rest period, and now with Camavinga available, the conditions seem right for that switch. With Camavinga as another midfield anchor, Ancelotti doesn’t have to rely solely on Tchouaméni in that role.
Is Lunin a Yashin in waiting?
Whoever partners with Tchouaméni, or possibly Militão, will be clear: Antonio Rüdiger. He’ll marshal the defense alongside Carvajal and Mendy on the flanks. This is essentially the backline of choice for Madrid’s big games as they look to navigate this Champions League campaign, which started shakily against Stuttgart but ended with a 2-0 win.
This defensive wall will stand in front of the Etihad hero, Andriy Lunin, who was a Yashin Trophy candidate last season. With Courtois still sidelined, Lunin is back after injury and will have two key opportunities – against Lille and Villarreal – to prove himself before the Belgian’s return after the international break. The first test is at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium.
Time for Güler to shine again
Moving forward from Camavinga, it’s all about speed and skill, with Valverde and Bellingham operating as the right and left midfielders, providing muscle and energy in their roles. The central attacking spot could go to Arda Güler. The Turkish youngster has started three times (against Valladolid, Real Sociedad, and Espanyol), but went scoreless in the recent derby. “Sometimes he plays, sometimes he doesn’t,” summarized Ancelotti.
All signs point to Güler getting the nod against Lille, where he’ll have the chance to showcase his magic behind the Brazilian duo.
Vinicius and Rodrygo, the dynamic duo, are set to lead the attack once again with Mbappé still being eased back into action, likely not fit to start. They will be the spearhead of the attack, although there’s a chance Endrick could make his first appearance in the starting lineup. However, it seems more likely that the focus will remain on Vinicius (7) and Rodrygo (11), with Mbappé (9) and possibly Endrick (16) ready to come off the bench to inject fresh energy in the second half.
The most probable starting XI for Real Madrid at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium is: Lunin; Carvajal, Tchouaméni or Militão, Rüdiger, Mendy; Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham; Güler; Rodrygo, and Vinicius.