Seemingly offended by the meagre success of a Copa del Rey last season, Real Madrid have returned to their imperious best in 2023/24.
Despite the brilliance of surprise-package Girona, Madrid’s relentless consistency saw them end 2023 at the top of La Liga having lost just one game in all competitions.
Carlo Ancelotti has put on a coaching clinic so far this term, with his change in system and successful integration of Jude Bellingham helping Los Blancos move on from Karim Benzema.
The Italian is set to have several players back from injury for Madrid’s first game of 2024 at home to Mallorca, and here’s how they could line up on Wednesday evening.
GK: Andriy Lunin – With Thibaut Courtois out for the rest of the season, Lunin could remain between the sticks until the summer after impressing during the backend of 2023.
RB: Dani Carvajal – The stalwart full-back is back in training after a few weeks out, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him come straight back into the side on Wednesday.
CB: Antonio Rudiger – The German has been imperative to Madrid’s success this season. Rudiger has played alongside several folk this term, and he could have another new partner against Mallorca.
CB: Aurelien Tchouameni – With Nacho suspended, Ancelotti could deploy midfielder Tchouameni had the heart of Madrid’s defence. The Italian believes the former Monaco starlet could evolve into “one of the best centre-backs” in the world.
LB: Fran Garcia – With Ferland Mendy a doubt and Eduardo Camavinga on the comeback trail, we could see summer arrival Garcia continue at left-back.
DM: Toni Kroos – Kroos ended 2023 in a deeper-lying position, and Ancelotti’s forced reshuffle at the back means the German should remain at Madrid’s base.
CM: Luka Modric – The veteran has returned to prominence after a slow start to the season. At the ripe old age of 38, Modric remains a supreme performer in the middle of the park.
CM: Federico Valverde – Valverde enjoyed a superb 2023 and is one of Ancelotti’s favourites. Only Rudiger has played more La Liga minutes for Madrid than the Uruguayan this season.
AM: Jude Bellingham – 2023 was the year of the Jude, and 2024, given the trophies at stake, has the potential to be even more magical for the Englishman.
ST: Rodrygo – The Brazilian international thrived in Vinicius Jr’s absence, and this might be the last chance for Rodrygo to dazzle from the left half-space with Vini expected to be included in the matchday squad.
ST: Joselu – Ancelotti should be cautious with Vinicius, so he might only earn minutes off the bench on Wednesday. Thus, Joselu could partner Rodrygo.
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