Alexander-Arnold, Valverde start in a 4-3-3 – How Real Madrid can line up against Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

Real Madrid will be desperate to respond after their disappointing Champions League setback against Liverpool as they travel across the Spanish capital to face Rayo Vallecano later today. 

The defeat at Anfield has left Xabi Alonso’s men hungry for redemption, and a strong performance at Vallecas could be the perfect way to reassert their domestic dominance.

Despite the European frustration, Los Blancos remain firmly in control of La Liga. 

They currently sit at the top of the table with a five-point cushion over Barcelona, and the trip to Rayo presents another opportunity to strengthen their grip on first place. 

Their opponents, meanwhile, have had a steady start to the campaign, collecting 14 points from their opening 11 matches.

When it comes to recent meetings, Real Madrid have had mixed fortunes against Rayo. 

They narrowly edged a 2-1 win in their last encounter back in March, but overall, they have managed just two victories in their last six games against the same opposition. 

That statistic alone will serve as a warning that nothing can be taken for granted.

On that note, let’s take a look at how Real Madrid could lineup today.

Defence

In goal, there is absolutely no debate – Thibaut Courtois will start. 

Alvaro Carreras is expected to retain his position. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The Belgian international was outstanding against Liverpool, single-handedly preventing the scoreline from becoming embarrassing. 

His consistency and leadership make him an automatic choice between the sticks.

In defence, Trent Alexander-Arnold could make a surprise return to the starting XI after featuring as a substitute earlier this week. 

At centre-back, Eder Militao is expected to line up alongside Dean Huijsen, as David Alaba, who only recently recovered from a muscle problem, may not be risked from the start. 

On the left, Alvaro Carreras should retain his position after a series of strong performances that have impressed the coaching staff.

Midfield

The midfield will see the biggest adjustment following Aurelien Tchouameni’s hamstring injury. 

The Frenchman’s absence leaves a void in the pivot role, but Eduardo Camavinga looks poised to step in. 

The young Frenchman’s dynamism, ball-carrying ability, and tactical awareness make him a natural fit to anchor the midfield.

With Alexander-Arnold potentially returning to his natural position, Federico Valverde is expected to move back into central midfield, where his energy and work rate are most effective. 

Jude Bellingham will continue to dictate play in the final third, while Arda Guler offers creativity and flair on the ball. 

Depending on the game’s flow, Alonso could toggle between a diamond 4-4-2 and a fluid 4-3-3 shape.

Attack

Mbappe and Vinicius will lead Real Madrid’s attack. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Up front, the deadly partnership of Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe is set to take centre stage once again. 

Both players will be eager to bounce back after a quiet night at Anfield, and their chemistry could prove decisive against Rayo’s compact defensive line.

Brahim Diaz, who continues to push for more minutes in the absence of Franco Mastantuono, is expected to start in support, adding creativity and balance to the front line. 

Meanwhile, Rodrygo might have to settle for a role off the bench once again, offering fresh legs and pace in the latter stages of the match.