Luka Modric will return to the Real Madrid starting lineup against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Saturday.
Real Madrid will aim to continue the unbeaten start to the 2024/25 season when they lock horns with Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Saturday night. And Carlo Ancelotti has a few pivotal figures missing ahead of the trip to San Sebastian.
David Alaba (knee), Dani Ceballos (ankle), and Eduardo Camavinga (knee) remain on the sidelines due to their respective injuries. In addition, Aurelien Tchouameni and Jude Bellingham have missed the trip to take on Real Sociedad, with Ancelotti omitting the duo from the travelling squad.
Bellingham has been recovering from a leg injury, while Tchouameni has a problem with his foot. While the duo has trained, Ancelotti has confirmed in his pre-match press conference that they are not ready to return to action yet.
The Real Madrid manager said, “They won’t play tomorrow because it’s still a bit too soon to have them back in the team. They only trained a little with the team yesterday and in the last few days but they’ll be ready for Tuesday’s game.”
Ancelotti also discussed how he is dealing with resting players. The Italian tactician said, “Rüdiger has had 5 days, as have others. The guys who were injured have been here doing their recovery work. Now, with 7 games in 20 days, it’s good to rotate a bit. We have to keep an eye on the lads who have travelled and only got back on Thursday, let’s see if they recover. Rotation will be very important in the upcoming games.”
Antonio Rudiger will retain his spot at the heart of the Real Madrid defence after missing the international break to rest and recuperate. The German international will join Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, and Ferland Mendy in the backline, with Thibaut Courtois an automatic pick between the sticks.
As for the midfield unit, Luka Modric picks himself as Federico Valverde’s partner, considering the lack of options for Ancelotti. Arda Guler will reprise the no. 10 role, with Brahim Diaz an option on the bench. Finally, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo are automatic picks in the offensive trifecta.
Predicted Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Modric; Rodrygo, Guler, Vinicius; Mbappe
