Real Madrid’s Potential Lineup Against Olympiacos in Champions League Showdown
Real Madrid is set to face Olympiacos in an intriguing Champions League match. Coach Xabi Alonso is expected to field a unique lineup due to several key player absences. Most notably, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will miss the game due to gastroenteritis, marking the first time this season he will be sidelined.
Key Absences Impacting Real Madrid’s Lineup
The absence of Courtois adds to a list of injured players affecting the team’s defense. Defender Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, and lesser-known talents Huijsen and Mastantuono are also unavailable. This situation raises questions about the defensive structure for the upcoming match.
Provisional Lineup Against Olympiacos
The anticipated starting eleven for Real Madrid against Olympiacos includes:
- Lunin (Goalkeeper)
- Trent (Right Back)
- Asencio (Center Back)
- Carreras (Center Back)
- Fran García (Left Back)
- Tchouameni (Central Midfield)
- Valverde (Central Midfield)
- Brahim or Güler (Attacking Midfield)
- Bellingham (Attacking Midfield)
- Vinicius (Forward)
- Mbappé (Forward)
Xabi Alonso has chosen a squad of 20 players for the trip to Athens. Notable inclusions are Mendy, Camavinga, Ceballos, Rodrygo, Endrick, as well as goalkeepers Fran González and Javi Navarro.
Potential Tactical Adjustments
With the lack of natural defenders, Xabi Alonso may need to alter his strategy. There are several possibilities for pairing players in defense. For instance, Tchouameni could potentially play as a central defender. If he does, that would free up a spot in midfield for Brahim or Güler.
Even with these adjustments, the star players like Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham are expected to lead the attack effectively.
Upcoming Challenges for Real Madrid
Looking beyond Olympiacos, Real Madrid faces Manchester City on December 10 at the Bernabéu. Álvaro Carreras is the only player on the brink of suspension for this crucial encounter.
Fans will keenly watch how Alonso navigates these challenges and the depth of talent within his squad as the Champions League heats up.
