Bellingham, Alaba start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Real Madrid can line up against Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

Real Madrid return to action in La Liga later today, as they take on Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu, aiming to return to winning ways in the competition.

Their 2-1 defeat to Real Betis last weekend allowed Barcelona to open up a three-point lead. With the Catalans’ match against Osasuna last night getting suspended due to tragic circumstances, Los Merengues now have a chance to go level on points with a win.

At the same time, though, Carlo Ancelotti will also have an eye on the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg tie against Atletico Madrid next Wednesday, which might play a role in his team selection.

There is concern about the availability of Antonio Rudiger, as he did not train with the group on Saturday due to illness.

Federico Valverde trained normally but given his recent fitness issues, it might not come as a surprise to see the Uruguayan rested with an eye on the Atletico clash. Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Dani Ceballos, and Jesus Vallejo are all absent through injuries.

As such, here’s how Real Madrid could take the field against Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu, aiming to bag all three points.

Defence

There is no looking past Thibaut Courtois when it comes to the goal for Real Madrid, with the Belgian superstar hoping to keep a clean sheet on home turf.

With Rudiger’s availability a doubt, there may be a change in the defensive line as David Alaba could get a look-in. But Raul Asencio is expected to hold on to his place at the heart of the Los Blancos’ backline against Rayo Vallecano.

As mentioned earlier, Valverde is likely to be rested, opening the door for Lucas Vazquez to return to the starting lineup at right-back.

Ferland Mendy, too, could be given a breather by Ancelotti, with Fran Garcia expected to take his place on the left side of the defence.

Midfield

Set to return to the lineup. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Eduardo Camavinga received a rare starting opportunity against Atletico Madrid in midweek but was well below the desired level. As such, the Frenchman is likely to drop out of the side, with captain Luka Modric expected to replace him.

Aurelien Tchouameni has slowly recovered his form after a difficult period and should be a permanent fixture in the centre of the park for the reigning champions.

After missing the last two matches in La Liga and one in the UEFA Champions League through suspension, Jude Bellingham is available again and should walk right back into the starting lineup, slotting in as the attacking midfielder.

Attack

Both Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. have been experiencing a dip in form in recent games and Ancelotti & co. will look up to them to step up and find their mojo back heading into the crucial phase of the season.

Brahim Diaz, who has been delivering when needed for Real Madrid in Bellingham’s absence, could move to the right-wing position, with Rodrygo likely to be rested to keep him fresh for the Atletico Madrid encounter.