Official: Real Madrid starting lineup against Villarreal | La Liga MD8 | OneFootball

As Real Madrid get set to take on Villarreal in a little over an hour, manager Xabi Alonso has announced the starting lineup that will take the field at the Santiago Bernabeu.

In a bit of a surprise, Federico Valverde seems to be starting at right-back, after all the noise surrounding his alleged refusal to play in the position over the past few weeks.

Meanwhile, Eder Militao returns to the side after missing the midweek game against Kairat Almaty due to a knock while Alvaro Carreras also makes it back into the team after resting. Dean Huijsen and Thibaut Courtois round up the defensive unit.

Meanwhile, Dani Ceballos retains his place in the starting XI after his impressive display in midweek. He partners Aurelien Tchouameni in the centre of the park while Arda Guler operates in a slightly more advanced role.

It also means that there is no place for Jude Bellingham in the starting XI while Eduardo Camavinga also misses out.

Franco Mastantuono and Vinicius Jr. continue on the flanks ahead of Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo, while Kylian Mbappe starts up top.