Real Madrid enter a pivotal period in their season with three games in just seven days. Between the Copa del Rey, La Liga and the Champions League, each game could have a major impact on their ambitions. And to make matters worse, Carlo Ancelotti has to contend with a packed infirmary this evening against Leganes in the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey. The Transalpine coach has just unveiled his official line-up.
Before thinking about the forthcoming clashes with Atlético Madrid and Manchester City, Real Madrid must first secure their place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey. Tonight, Los Merengues take on Leganés, a team that has already caused a surprise this season by beating Barcelona and Atlético in La Liga. But Borja Jiménez’s men will also have to contend with some major absentees, notably Franquesa and Cissé, two key components of their squad. However, Leganés will not be coming here as an expiatory victim, and are determined to make the most of their chances.
Carlo Ancelotti is facing a very complex situation. His injury list is growing by the day. In addition to the well-known absences of David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal and Eduardo Camavinga, the Italian coach has had to announce a new disappointment: neither Jude Bellingham nor Kylian Mbappé will be taking part. As a result, Ancelotti has had to revise his plans and give some of his lesser-used players some game time this season. A real-life test ahead of the forthcoming clashes.
Real Madrid’s official line-up against Leganes
Against Leganés, Real Madrid will be fielding a much-changed line-up. Lunin starts in goal, while the defensive line is made up of Valverde, Asencio, Jacobo and Fran García. In midfield, Dani Ceballos takes charge with Luka Modric, Brahim Diaz and Arda Güler. In attack, Rodrygo and Vinícius Jr will be charged with making the difference. While a number of youngsters will have a chance to show their worth, the absence of key players such as Bellingham and Mbappé could prove a heavy burden. The game will also serve as a test for Jacobo and Güler, who will have to prove that they can provide solutions in this complicated period.
Official Real Madrid line-up
- Goalkeeper: Lunin
- Defence: Mendy, Jacobo, Asencio, Valverde
- Midfielders: Tchouameni, Modric, Arda Guler
- Attack: Rodrygo, Endrick, Brahim Diaz
This match against Leganés is an essential step for Real Madrid, but it comes at a delicate time. Three days later, Los Merengues take on Atlético in a fiery derby that could play a crucial role in the La Liga title race. Then, next Tuesday, Madrid travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City in the Champions League. Ancelotti must therefore juggle the need to rotate his squad with the obligation to remain competitive on all fronts. The slightest mistake could prove costly.
Leave a Reply