A soccer coach gesturing on a field with the crests of two teams in the background.
FIRST TEAM

Ancelotti's Chosen for the Copa del Rey: 3 Academy Players and 1 First Team Player

Ancelotti rotates, although he still keeps a player in his line-up who is very regular

Real Madrid kicks off its journey in the Copa del Rey in the round of sixteen against Deportiva Minera. Ancelotti already knows that these games can be more challenging than expected. That's why his line-up was a big mystery as it could have very few rotations, fewer than anticipated.

In fact, the team list surprised by leaving only Courtois and Rüdiger in Madrid, in addition to the injured players. This made it clear that in goal, Lunin would finally have his chance, as he has barely played. The goalkeeper will be able to show Ancelotti that he can have more minutes.

A soccer goalkeeper in action stopping a ball near the goal during a match.
Lunin stretching to stop a ball | Real Madrid Confidencial

In defense, it seemed evident that Raúl Asencio would start after his good performances. However, the question was who would join him with neither the German nor Vallejo, who had physical problems, available. Finally, Ancelotti opts for Diego Aguado.

The rest of the defense left us with Lucas Vázquez, who will benefit from the rest, with Lorenzo Aguado taking his place. On the left side, Mendy played against Valencia last Friday. Therefore, it also seemed evident that Fran García would be the one to start in the starting eleven.

A very recognizable midfield and a forward line full of excitement

The midfield might be the most recognizable and starting line of the eleven presented by Ancelotti. Fede Valverde doesn't rest even against Deportiva Minera and makes it into the starting line-up. Alongside him are Camavinga and Modric, who weren't starters against Valencia.

A soccer player running on the field with a crowd of spectators in the background.
Endrick celebrating a goal with Real Madrid | RealMadridConfidencial

In attack, two of the players who generate the most excitement among Madrid fans appear. They are Endrick and Arda Güler, who have a great opportunity to shine. Brahim completes the forward line, who isn't an undisputed starter but has also accumulated many minutes.

Ancelotti introduces 3 youth players with Asensio, who is already part of the first team, but also for the Aguados. Lorenzo and Diego will debut under Carletto's orders with the "big ones." All of them with a Fede Valverde who is a key starter and doesn't fail for the Italian coach.

➡️ First Team

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