Real Madrid enters the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atlético Madrid with a boost in their squad’s health, as manager Carlo Ancelotti enjoys a full roster of midfielders and forwards. With all eight midfielders and four forwards at his disposal, Ancelotti faces decisions in key positions, aiming for victory in the first of three Madrid derbies within a month.
Possible Starting Lineup:
- Goalkeeper:
- The goalkeeping dilemma persists between Lunin and Kepa, with Ancelotti likely to maintain his recent rotation trend. Lunin could get the nod this time.
- Defense:
- Carvajal, Rüdiger, Nacho, and the returning Mendy form the defensive lineup, with Rüdiger and Nacho as the center-back pairing.
- Midfield:
- Valverde, Bellingham, and Kroos are expected starters. The fourth midfield spot could be contested between Camavinga and Modric.
- Attack:
- Vinícius and Rodrygo are anticipated to lead the attack, providing firepower up front for Real Madrid.
Unavailable Players:
- Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Eder Militão, and Lucas Vázquez remain sidelined due to injuries.
Bench Composition:
- Ancelotti must decide the matchday squad from the 24 players who traveled. Two players will be omitted from the 22-man squad. The bench may include Kepa, Fran González, Vinicius Tobias, Carrillo, Fran García, Tchouaméni, Mario Martín, Ceballos, Güler, Nico Paz, Brahim, and Joselu, along with the potential inclusion of either Camavinga or Modric.
Conclusion: Real Madrid, boasting a rejuvenated squad, seeks to secure the Spanish Super Cup against arch-rivals Atlético Madrid. Ancelotti’s tactical choices, especially in the midfield, will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this high-stakes encounter. With injury concerns in defense and the goalkeeping position, the match promises to be a test of Real Madrid’s depth and resilience in pursuit of early-season silverware.
