Predicted XIs Levante-Real Madrid: Minimal rotation for Xabi Alonso ahead of Madrid derby | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso said on Monday that his mind was on Levante when asked about the Ballon d’Or gala that evening. More of a concern than the awards night in Paris might be the derby at the Metropolitano on Saturday, Alonso will show no sign of distraction in his line-up at the Ciutat de Valencia.

Los Blancos are hoping to make it seven wins out of seven to begin the season, and apply further pressure on Barcelona, who do not play until Thursday. Diario AS predict that Real Madrid will make three changes to their side that beat Espanyol 2-0 on Saturday.

Eder Militao is predicted to rest as Real Madrid keep their centre-back choices fresh, with Dean Huijsen back from suspension. Arda Guler or Jude Bellingham, who himself made his first appearance on Saturday after two months out, to replace Gonzalo Garcia, who began against Los Pericos. Despite Real Madrid’s strong form, Alonso has asked them to play with more ambition.

The Vinicius question

Alonso also said in the build-up that he understood Vinicius’ frustration after being withdrawn on Saturday, but that he was happy with his performances. There is a question mark over whether he will start in Valencia though, with AS saying it will be Rodrygo Goes who replaces him ahead of their clash with Atletico Madrid, while MD believe that Vinicius will keep his spot.

Image via MD

They also subscribe to the idea that Huijsen and Guler will be back, but feel that Franco Mastantuono will be given a rest in favour of Brahim Diaz, and that it will be Raul Asencio who drops out of the team. Antonio Rudiger, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ferland Mendy remain injured, but beyond that, Los Blancos have a fully fit squad.

Clean bill of health for Levante

Levante will be confident coming off a 4-0 win over Girona, their first of theh season, having recorded three defeats and a 2-2 draw against Real Betis two weekends ago. Julian Calero has no injuries or suspensions to consider, and their main threat will be Karl Etta Eyong, who has scored in his two outings since signing.

The challenge for Los Granotas will be keeping things tight at the other end, having conceded nine goals in the four games prior to their Girona victory. Calero is expected to set up in a compact 4-4-2 shape.