Mourinho could hand two Real Madrid fringe stars their first starts against Malaga – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s winning start to the 2026/27 La Liga season could bring an early change of personnel this weekend, with Jose Mourinho considering a first start of the campaign for both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Brahim Diaz against Malaga.

Los Blancos have collected victories over Espanyol and Real Sociedad, but Mourinho is already assessing the need to manage his squad carefully as the demands of the season begin to build. 

On that note, the visit of newly promoted Malaga to the Santiago Bernabéu could offer an opportunity to rotate without disrupting the side that has started the campaign so strongly.

According to Defensa Central, Trent and Brahim are among the Real Madrid players being considered for the starting XI after both were left waiting for their first starts under Mourinho.

Trent could finally get his opportunity

The right side of Real Madrid’s defence has been one of the areas under the closest scrutiny since the start of the season.

Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries shared responsibilities on that flank during pre-season, with the former Liverpool player even operating alongside the Dutchman at times. 

Trent Alexander-Arnold could start against Malaga. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

Mourinho has since opted for Dumfries in the opening league fixtures, leaving Trent to wait for his opportunity, but that wait could end against Malaga.

With Madrid entering a period in which rotation will become important, Mourinho and his staff feel some of the players who have started the season need a brief rest. 

They feel that Alexander-Arnold’s technical quality and ability to contribute further forward would also give Madrid a slightly different profile from the right-back position.

Hence, a start against Malaga would offer the England international a chance to make his case after losing the initial selection battle to Dumfries.

Brahim Diaz set for Malaga reunion

Brahim’s situation is more complicated, largely because of the competition he faces higher up the pitch.

Brahim Diaz regularly featured during the pre-season. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Arda Guler has emerged as Mourinho’s preferred option on the right, using the position as a starting point before moving into central areas. 

That role has become an important feature of Real Madrid’s attacking structure, meaning Brahim would need to be accommodated without damaging the balance.

The Moroccan international’s strongest route into the lineup could be on the right wing, potentially operating ahead of Alexander-Arnold if both players are selected.

Brahim gave Mourinho plenty to think about during pre-season. A regular in the manager’s starting lineups, he scored the decisive goal that secured Real Madrid’s Teresa Herrera Trophy.

For now, though, his performances have not yet translated into a competitive start, but the Malaga match could present the right moment.