Valverde, Mastantuono start in a 4-3-3 – How Real Madrid can line up against Kairat Almaty | OneFootball

Real Madrid are heading to Kazakhstan to face Kairat Almaty after suffering a heavy 2-5 defeat against Atletico Madrid in the Madrid derby.

The journey to the Central Stadium in Almaty covers 7,000 kilometres, but the challenge is bigger than just travel.

The gap on the pitch between Los Blancos and Kairat is clear, yet Xabi Alonso knows that this is not just any match, as it is a chance to rebuild confidence after a harsh blow at the Bernabéu.

Alonso’s team must not only aim for victory but also show control and dominance. The derby defeat exposed weaknesses in the squad, especially in defence, and Madrid cannot afford another display like that.

The absences of Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy leave the defensive line vulnerable.

The stakes are high, and Alonso must find solutions quickly. On that note, let’s take a look at how Real Madrid could lineup against Kairat Almaty

Defence

Valverde is likely to be Real Madrid’s right-back. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Thibaut Courtois will, as expected, start in goal, remaining the indisputable first choice ahead of Andriy Lunin.

Defensively, Madrid face several challenges. Militao did not travel due to a heavy blow to his left ankle, while Rudiger remains unavailable.

David Alaba is still uncertain, having played only ten official minutes this season. This opens the door for Raul Asencio to step in alongside Dean Huijsen.

On the right side, Federico Valverde will take on the full-back role. Alonso will need to convince the Uruguayan to adapt to the position, despite Valverde having publicly rejected it in the past.

Leading up to this match, Valverde denied those statements, suggesting he is willing to help the team. On the left, Fran Garcia is expected to start, marking just his second appearance of the season.

Midfield

The midfield setup will depend heavily on Alonso’s choices. With Valverde covering the right-back, the manager has more flexibility to arrange his midfield trio.

Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to partner with Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler. Both Bellingham and Guler had a quiet derby, but they are eager to establish themselves as key figures in a midfield that looks likely to spend a lot of time together this season.

Eduardo Camavinga could also feature, but Alonso is expected to keep his starting XI largely unchanged while he continues to study the squad.

Attack

Mastantuono could start against Kairat Almaty. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Up front, the attacking line seems settled. Franco Mastantuono, Vinicius Jr., and Kylian Mbappe are expected to lead the charge.

Mbappe, in particular, has been untouchable in terms of criticism this season, remaining the standout performer for Los Blancos.

Brahim Diaz, Rodrygo, and Gonzalo Garcia have all impressed in training and matches, but the South American trio is likely to get the nod once again.

This match against Kairat is crucial for Real Madrid to regain momentum and confidence after the derby setback.

Alonso will be hoping that his team can combine solidity in defence with creativity in attack to get a convincing win in Kazakhstan.

Victory here will not only boost morale but also send a strong message that Real Madrid are ready to respond to the early-season challenges.