Espanyol-Real Madrid: David's Starting XI

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Post on Feb 02, 2025

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Espanyol vs Real Madrid: Predicting Carlo Ancelotti's Starting XI

The upcoming clash between Espanyol and Real Madrid is a crucial fixture in La Liga. While Real Madrid are the clear favourites, Espanyol, playing at home, will be eager to cause an upset. Predicting Carlo Ancelotti's starting eleven is always a challenge, but based on recent form, injuries, and tactical considerations, here's a likely lineup for the Real Madrid manager.

Real Madrid's Predicted Starting XI

Formation: 4-3-3

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois – The undisputed number one, Courtois' consistency is vital for Real Madrid's defensive solidity. His commanding presence in the box and shot-stopping abilities are crucial.

• Defenders: Dani Carvajal (RB), Eder Militao (CB), David Alaba (CB), and Ferland Mendy (LB). This back four offers a potent blend of experience and pace. Carvajal's attacking prowess down the right flank will be key, while Mendy provides similar threat on the left. The central defensive partnership of Militao and Alaba, a blend of strength and agility, is essential in neutralizing Espanyol's attack.

• Midfielders: Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Federico Valverde. This midfield trio provides a balance of creativity, defensive stability, and attacking impetus. Modric's experience and vision will be crucial in dictating the tempo, Tchouameni provides the defensive shield, and Valverde's tireless runs and powerful shots add the attacking threat from midfield.

• Forwards: Vinicius Junior (LW), Karim Benzema (ST), and Rodrygo Goes (RW). This attacking trident is arguably the most potent in La Liga. Vinicius' pace and dribbling skills, Benzema's clinical finishing, and Rodrygo's versatility and goal-scoring ability combine to create a formidable attacking threat. Expect these three to cause Espanyol's defense significant problems.

Key Tactical Considerations for Ancelotti

Ancelotti's tactical approach will likely focus on controlling possession and exploiting Espanyol's weaknesses. He will likely instruct his midfielders to press high and win back possession quickly, preventing Espanyol from building attacks. The full-backs, Carvajal and Mendy, will be encouraged to push forward and provide width, stretching the Espanyol defense.

Espanyol's Potential Threats

Espanyol are not to be underestimated. They possess players capable of causing Real Madrid problems. Ancelotti will need to instruct his team to be wary of Espanyol’s counter-attacking abilities and set-pieces. A strong defensive display will be paramount.

Potential Changes to the Starting XI

While this is the predicted starting XI, Ancelotti is known for his tactical flexibility. Depending on the fitness of players and the specific tactical approach he wants to employ, minor changes are always possible. Players like Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos could be considered depending on the game situation.

Conclusion: A Real Madrid Victory Expected

Despite Espanyol's home advantage, Real Madrid are the overwhelming favourites to win this match. With this strong starting eleven and Ancelotti's tactical acumen, a Real Madrid victory seems likely, but Espanyol's determination and potential to cause upsets should not be discounted. It promises to be an exciting and closely-fought encounter.