Real Madrid return to La Liga action when they host Espanyol at the Bernabéu on Saturday night.
The Whites continued their unbeaten start to the campaign defeated Stuttgart 3-1 in the Champions League but attention is now focused on the four-point deficit they currently have behind league leaders Barcelona.
Madrid still have a couple of injury problems to contend with, while manager Carlo Ancelotti can play with his starting line-up to keep it fresh in what is sure to be a long and grueling season.
Here is the XI that the Italian coach could choose on Saturday.
GK: Thibaut Courtois – Made six important saves for Madrid against Stuttgart, further consolidating as without a doubt the best goalkeeper in the world right now
RB: Dani Carvajal – Started the last game in central defense alongside Antonio Rudiger but should return to his main position, allowing Eder Militao to come into the wing as Lucas Vázquez drops out.
CB: Eder Militao – He has played twice since recovering from a muscle problem in his right leg and will resume his fearsome partnership with Rudiger.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – The charismatic German international put Madrid back in front of Stuttgart with his fifth goal for the club.
LB: Ferland Mendy – He recently penned a new contract extension with the club, although there’s a good chance he could end up battling for minutes with Alphonso Davies if Madrid rekindle their interest in the Bayern Munich winger in the future.
CM: Jude Bellingham – Returned in midweek after missing the England games earlier this month through injury. The dynamic midfielder could be rested if Ancelotti chooses to be cautious with his return.
CM: Luka Modric – Aurelien Tchouameni was the main figure on Tuesday night but could leave the side, allowing veteran Ballon d’Or winner Modric a third The League start of the campaign.
CM: Federico Valverde – The energetic Uruguayan is a threat in everything he does, whether it’s making crisp tackles or shooting at goal.
RW: Rodrygo – Unselfishly set up Mbappé against Stuttgart and was undoubtedly Madrid’s best striker in that game. He will try to add to his only goal so far this year.
ST: Kylian Mbappe – After a goalless start that worried some fans, the France captain is now scoring freely. His strike against Stuttgart was his fifth of the campaign in all competitions.
LW: Vinicius Junior – This will be another opportunity for Vinicius to develop his budding partnership with Mbappé. The Brazilian came close to scoring against Stuttgart but saw an effort hit the woodwork.
