Yahoo Sports Vinicius, Asencio start in a 4-4-2: How Real Madrid can line up against Atalanta
After suffering three defeats in their five UEFA Champions League matches so far, Real Madrid enter into tonight’s clash against Atalanta knowing that they must treat it as a virtual final.
Los Blancos are already in the 24th position in the Champions League standings, meaning a direct spot in the Round of 16 is pretty much out of the question. Another slip-up tonight would jeopardise their chances of securing a place in the playoffs as well.
As such, a lot is on the line for the reigning champions of Spain and Europe when they take on Atalanta, who are currently the table-toppers in Serie A.
The two teams already met earlier this season in the UEFA Super Cup tie, with Real Madrid emerging triumphant.
However, the two teams have gone on a different course since then in terms of form and confidence, with Atalanta performing exceedingly well – registering nine league wins in a row and not losing even once in Europe as they sit fifth in the table.
With a lot riding on the line tonight, Carlo Ancelotti has recovered his main attacking weapon, Vinicius Jr., from injury ten days ahead of schedule. However, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and Eder Militao remain unavailable.
Taking everything under consideration, here’s how Real Madrid could line up against Gian Piero Gasperini’s men tonight in Bergamo.
Defence
Thibaut Courtois has come up clutch for Real Madrid on so many occasions when the stakes are high and Carlo Ancelotti & co. will once again be looking for a stellar performance from the man in goal.
A couple of changes are expected in defence, one of which will be a forced one as Fran Garcia will replace the injured Ferland Mendy at left-back.
The other change should see young defender Raul Asencio, who has more than held his own on the big stage so far, return to the lineup after a rest against Girona. He will partner Antonio Rudiger at centre-back while Lucas Vazquez starts on the right.
Midfield
The midfield department is where Ancelotti has a lot of important decisions to make with regard to personnel selection.
Despite his fluctuating performances, Aurelien Tchouameni enjoys the full trust of the manager and should return to his natural role in midfield, after playing at centre-back over the weekend against Girona.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde is a guaranteed fixture in the team, given all the qualities he brings to the table. Jude Bellingham, back to his goalscoring ways, is another confirmed starter for Los Blancos in the attacking midfield role.
That just leaves one position in the middle of the park with three players competing for it. Dani Ceballos has done well in his recent chances while Arda Guler impressed and scored against Girona this weekend.
However, captain Luka Modric, who has been a source of creativity from midfield is likely to get the nod in the crucial tie.
Attack
Both Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. are back in the squad for Real Madrid, handing a timely boost ahead of the big game against Atalanta.
Even though reports suggest that he is not at 100% yet, Vinicius is expected to feature from the get-go in Italy tonight. He will be paired alongside marquee summer signing Kylian Mbappe, who scored in the Super Cup win over Atalanta on his Real Madrid debut.
