Real Madrid’s Expected Starting XI Ahead of Liverpool Clash

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Anfield Index

·27 de noviembre de 2024

Real Madrid’s Expected Starting XI Ahead of Liverpool Clash

Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Predicted Lineups and Key Absences for Champions League Clash

The Champions League serves up another heavyweight contest as Liverpool welcome Real Madrid to Anfield tonight. Both sides boast illustrious European pedigrees, but it’s Real Madrid who face significant hurdles with a spate of injuries testing their squad depth.

For Liverpool, under Arne Slot’s guidance, a perfect start to the season sees them perched at the top of the table with four consecutive wins. Real Madrid, meanwhile, come into the fixture bruised but not broken, determined to defend their European crown.

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Injury Woes Mount for Real Madrid

Real Madrid’s trip to Merseyside is overshadowed by a growing injury list. The absence of Vinicius Jr. is a major blow, with the Brazilian sidelined for several weeks due to a left leg injury. Rodrygo is another key attacker ruled out after sustaining a knock against Osasuna.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensively, Carlo Ancelotti is grappling with an even bigger crisis. Eder Militao is out for the season with an ACL injury, while Dani Carvajal’s unavailability forces Federico Valverde to deputise at right-back. Though Lucas Vazquez is reportedly fit enough for the squad, his lack of match fitness makes him unlikely to start.

This injury glut also affects Real’s midfield. With Aurelien Tchouameni out, Eduardo Camavinga is expected to take on a deeper role, potentially partnering Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham in the centre of the park.

A New-Look Real Madrid Attack

Without their first-choice wingers, Madrid’s forward line will look markedly different. Kylian Mbappe, a marquee signing this season, is poised to start on the left flank in Vinicius Jr.’s absence. Despite his relatively subdued start to the Champions League campaign, with just one goal so far, Mbappe’s quality remains a threat to Liverpool’s defence.

Photo: IMAGO

Joining Mbappe could be Brahim Diaz and Arda Guler, both eager to capitalise on rare starting opportunities. Ancelotti’s tactical adjustments will be under scrutiny as he attempts to balance Madrid’s attacking intent with defensive stability.

Liverpool’s Advantage at Fortress Anfield

Liverpool’s confidence will be bolstered by their impressive early-season form. Anfield remains one of the most daunting venues in European football, and with Slot’s tactical acumen, the Reds will look to exploit Madrid’s makeshift defence.

While Madrid may have Jude Bellingham, Liverpool’s midfield, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch, will aim to dominate possession and press high.