Kylian Mbappé will look to take control, from the left wing, alternating with Rodrygo in certain stretches, with star Vini out.
Life without Vinicius. That is the reality for Real Madrid after the Brazilian received his fifth yellow card during the match against Rayo Vallecano for overly aggressive protests aimed at referee Martínez Munuera. As a result, Vinícius is now on holiday and will not return to training until December 30, along with the rest of the squad.
However, there is still one game left before Christmas – an assignment that Carlo Ancelotti, without hard feelings, called 'unfortunately'. It's the last game of 2024, so Ancelotti plans to field his strongest lineup before the team gets a well-deserved break the following week.
Brahim to fill Vini's void
Without Vinícius, Brahim Díaz is the frontrunner to take his place. The midfielder has made the most of his recent opportunities and has shown no shortage of effort and determination. Brahim is expected to complete a front three alongside Kylian Mbappe on the left wing – “his adjustment period is over; I see him more motivated now,” Ancelotti said recently – and Rodrygo, who probably started as a central striker. However, at certain stages of the match, Mbappe could take on the central role, with Rodrygo shifting to the wing depending on the flow of the match.
Fran García will probably start
The line-up will be close to Real Madrid's best available XI. Despite Ferland Mendy returning to group training on Saturday, his lack of match fitness makes Fran García the favorite for the left back position.
In defense, Aurélien Tchouaméni will continue alongside Antonio Rüdiger, while the midfield trio of Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham brings a mix of energy, hard work and creativity.
Probably starting eleven against Sevilla
Ancelotti's focus will be on securing a strong finish to the year before regrouping for the second half of the season.
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