A group of players in white uniforms pose in a stadium, while a man in a dark suit walks in front; in the center of the image, the crests of the Real Betis and Real Madrid teams overlap.
Ancelotti, line-up for Real Betis - Real Madrid | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

Ancelotti Solves the Center-back Dilemma, Bombshell 3 Days Before Atlético

Alaba is a starter against Betis and that confirms his absence in Champions against Atlético because he isn't ready to play every 3 days.

by

Alex Moreno

Carlo Ancelotti has made a key decision for Real Madrid. Just three days before the Champions clash against Atlético, the coach has opted for an unexpected solution in the center of defense.

Alaba Plays Today, but Not on Tuesday

David Alaba will start against Betis. However, Ancelotti has already made it clear that the Austrian can't play every three days. Therefore, his presence against Atlético in the Champions is practically ruled out.

The Italian coach has decided to give him minutes today so he can rest on Tuesday. This leaves open the question of who will join Rüdiger in the European classic.

Real Madrid line-up

Real Madrid arrives with significant absences. Ceballos, Valverde, Bellingham, Carvajal, and Militão are not available. Even so, the rest of the squad is ready for the challenge.

This is the line-up Ancelotti has chosen:

Goalkeeper: Courtois.

Defense: Lucas Vázquez, Rüdiger, Alaba, Mendy.

Midfield: Modric, Tchouaméni, Brahim.

Attack: Vinícius, Rodrygo, Mbappé.

It is an offensive bet with which they will seek to impose themselves on Betis.

Two players in action during a match, one in an orange uniform and the other in a light blue uniform.
Raúl Asencio against Manchester City at the Etihad | Real Madrid Confidencial

A Deceptive Match at Villamarín

Real Madrid visits Benito Villamarín with the need to win. Continuing to add points is key to staying in the fight for La Liga and arriving with confidence at the duel against Atlético.

But Betis will not make things easy. They play at home, with the support of their fans. Moreover, the arrival of Antony has improved their performance. They are now more dangerous.

The Whites must stay focused. A slip could be costly in the title race.

Who Will Play Against Atlético?

The big question remains in the defense. If Alaba is not there on Tuesday, Ancelotti will have to choose another center-back alongside Rüdiger. The main options are Raúl Asencio, Tchouaméni, or a tactical change.

In any case, the match against Betis will serve to test things. The priority is to win, but also to arrive at the European classic in the best conditions.

Ancelotti's decision could be key for the season. On Tuesday, it will be seen if he has made the right choice.

➡️ First Team

More posts: