Modric Set to Replace Bellingham, Mbappé to Start – Predicted Real Madrid Lineup vs Valladolid

Real Madrid will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing start to their La Liga title defense as they prepare to face Real Valladolid on Sunday. Following a frustrating draw against Mallorca in their opening match, head coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to make some tactical adjustments for this crucial home fixture.

Goalkeeper and Defense

Thibaut Courtois will undoubtedly continue as the starting goalkeeper, with the full confidence of Ancelotti and the technical staff behind him. The Belgian will aim for his first clean sheet of the season.

In defense, the absence of Ferland Mendy due to a red card in the previous match necessitates a change at left-back. Fran Garcia is set to take Mendy’s place, marking the only alteration in Real Madrid’s defensive lineup. Dani Carvajal will retain his spot at right-back, while Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger are expected to continue their partnership in central defense.The midfield will see a forced change with Jude Bellingham sidelined for a month due to a muscle injury. This setback is significant for Madrid, especially early in the season, as Eduardo Camavinga is also unavailable. Ancelotti is likely to bring Luka Modric into the starting XI to replace Bellingham. Aurelien Tchouameni will continue in the defensive midfield role, with Federico Valverde providing support, potentially operating in a slightly wider position to enhance pressing flexibility.Dani Ceballos, who has been facing an uncertain future, may get an opportunity in the second half, particularly if more creativity is needed in midfield.

Attack

In the attacking department, Ancelotti is expected to stick with the trio of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes. Mbappé, who impressed during his professional debut for Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta, will make his Santiago Bernabeu debut in La Liga. He will be eager to open his account in the league, and alongside Vinicius and Rodrygo, the trio will aim to improve their chemistry after a less-than-stellar performance against Mallorca.This fixture presents a crucial opportunity for Real Madrid to get their season back on track with a strong performance at home, and Ancelotti will be keen to ensure his team secures all three points.It sounds like Real Madrid is looking to rebound quickly after a frustrating start to their La Liga campaign. The upcoming match against Real Valladolid will indeed be a significant one, especially with the tactical changes and adjustments that Carlo Ancelotti might make.

### **Goalkeeper and Defense:**
Thibaut Courtois remaining as the first-choice goalkeeper is a given, especially with his experience and reliability. The change at left-back, necessitated by Ferland Mendy’s suspension, brings in Fran Garcia, who will be eager to impress. The rest of the defense with Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Antonio Rudiger offers stability, although the team will need to be more cohesive than in their previous outing to avoid conceding.

### **Midfield:**
The injury to Jude Bellingham is a blow, especially so early in the season. Luka Modric’s likely return to the starting lineup should help maintain creativity and control in midfield. Aurelien Tchouameni anchoring the midfield with Federico Valverde’s dynamic presence offers a good balance. The possibility of Dani Ceballos featuring later could be crucial if the team needs an injection of creativity or a change in tempo.

### **Attack:**
The front three of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes is full of potential, with Mbappé’s Santiago Bernabeu debut in La Liga being a key highlight. Their ability to connect and create chances will be under scrutiny, especially after a somewhat disjointed performance in their opener. This match provides a good opportunity for them to find their rhythm and establish themselves as a lethal attacking trio.

### **Overall:**
With these adjustments, Real Madrid should be well-prepared to secure their first win of the season. Ancelotti will emphasize the importance of starting strong, and the Bernabeu crowd will be expecting nothing less than a commanding performance from the team.