Real Madrid are already playing catch-up at the start of the 2024/25 La Liga season.
Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded team have dropped points on both trips this season and are four points behind rivals Barcelona heading into matchday five. A trip to Real Sociedad is no easy proposition as Los Blancos look to close the gap, especially given that injuries will hit the reigning Spanish champions in San Sebastian.
While Jude Bellingham may return in some form, Madrid could be without Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba and Dani Ceballos for Saturday’s clash. Both Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy are also doubts.
Here’s how Madrid could line up for the weekend clash.
GK: Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian stopper hasn’t been tested too often in the early weeks of the season, but has usually been reliable when called upon. No less was expected against Real Sociedad.
RB: Dani Carvajal – The surprise contestant at the Ballon d’Or remains Madrid’s undisputed first choice at right-back and has been characteristically fiery but steady this season.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – The glue that holds Madrid’s defense together, Rudiger has started 2024/25 in good form. He will be eager to win a third The League the clean sheet of the season at the Reale Arena.
CB: Eder Militao – There are concerns over Militao’s availability this weekend after he injured his knee with Brazil during the international break. However, he is expected to feature at the weekend, much to Ancelotti’s relief.
LB: Ferland Mendy – Just like Militao, there are doubts about Mendy’s fitness after withdrawing from the French national team. But, like his Brazilian team-mate, he should spend this weekend fit, with youngster Fran Garcia on guard just in case.
DM: Federico Valverde – Valverde, who is Madrid’s best player this weekend, may be asked to do a significantly bigger job defensively this weekend if Tchouameni misses out through injury.
DM: Luka Modric – Potentially replacing the French midfielder, veteran Modric could feature in his 22nd game against Real Sociedad. He was busy with Croatia during the international period and should be ready.
RW: Rodrygo – Rodrygo returns to Madrid after scoring the winner for Brazil in their clash with Ecuador and will be aiming to continue his impressive early season form. The winger may not get the same attention as his fellow strikers, but he is just as crucial to Madrid’s success.
AM: Jude Bellingham – Having lost England’s service and Madrid’s last matches, the magic Bellingham could go back to San Sebastián. Madrid have missed his creativity during his absence.
LW: Vinicius Junior – The Brazilian may have kept clean sheets in both of Madrid’s home games this season, but he has scored one goal and assisted in draws on the road. If he plays well, Madrid will probably win this weekend.
ST: Kylian Mbappe РAfter opening his La Liga account against Real Betis ahead of the international break, Mbapp̩ should be eager to add to his tally this Saturday. He scored three goals for Paris Saint-Germain against Real Sociedad last season Champions League.
