Real Madrid possible starting XI vs Albacete in the Copa del Rey: first with new manager Álvaro Arbeloa

There will be rotations, but no revolution. Nor is there much room for one. The Super Cup, despite not causing any serious injuries, has taken its toll in the form of muscle strains.

Rüdiger and Mbappé are definitely out, having not trained yesterday, while there are doubts over Rodrygo. Without them, and with a significant number of youth team players in the squad, Arbeloa must piece together a starting eleven. His first as Real Madrid coach. The first of the post-Xabi Alonso era.

Lunin will remain the goalkeeper for the Cup, with an unprecedented defensive line in front of him. Carvajal is not at 100 per cent, so David Jiménez is the likely starter at right-back. On the opposite flank, Fran García is also expected to start, while in central defence Huijsen is very likely to keep his place alongside Asencio, who is a certain starter. In midfield, Güler will be the reference point, potentially flanked by Tchouameni and Bellingham. Heavyweights.

Up front, the main question mark emerges. Vinicius returned from Jeddah with severe cramps. There is no injury, but he is recovering from significant muscle strain. Is he fit enough to start? That is the key doubt, although he appears likely to do so. Gonzalo would lead the line, with Mastantuono on the right wing.

It is worth remembering that only four players registered with the reserve team can be on the pitch at the same time, with Mastantuono counting towards that limit. Otherwise, the lineup would be ineligible.

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As things stand, the possible Real Madrid XI against Albacete would be: Lunin; David Jiménez, Asencio, Huijsen, Fran García; Tchouameni, Güler, Bellingham; Mastantuono, Gonzalo and Vinicius.

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