Confirmed Lineup for Real Madrid - Valencia: This Is How Ancelotti Starts

This past Tuesday, Real Madrid secured a spot in the Copa del Rey final by eliminating Real Sociedad. A triumph they haven't been able to savor much as they have to face the next challenge. The league match against Valencia at Santiago Bernabéu.

Ancelotti's team must secure the 3 points to keep putting pressure on Barça, hoping for their slip-up. But it's important to remember that next week the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal will be played. Something they've kept in mind with rotations in the line-up in recent matches.

To face Valencia, the first change is mandatory since Courtoisisn't recovered from his discomfort. Lunin is ready, having passed the final test to be included in the squad, but he won't be the starting goalkeeper. Even though there was a possibility that Fran González would have to play, it will indeed be the case.

In defense, there aren't many changes considering that Alaba isn't ready to play two consecutive matches. Rüdiger and Tchouaméni will be the starting center-backs, which is no longer a big surprise. On the flanks, Fran García and Lucas Vázquez are Carletto's choices against Valencia, considering the most obvious options.

Going for Victory with Some Surprises in the line-up Against Valencia

Real Madrid needs to secure the victory, but Ancelotti has some surprises in the starting eleven. In midfield, as a pivot, he places Fede Valverde, since Tchouaméni, who won't be able to play on Tuesday due to suspension, will be a center-back. Alongside him will be Bellingham and Fede Modric, giving Camavinga a rest for Arsenal.

Meanwhile, in the attack, Mbappé played the final part of the match against Real Sociedad. Against Valencia, he goes straight into the starting eleven alongside Vinicius, and the third striker will be Brahim. Therefore, Rodrygo remains on the bench despite speculation about him.

A line-up very similar to what Ancelotti will present to face Arsenal in the Champions League this Tuesday. Although for that day, Courtois might return to the goal, and the pivot will be Camavinga. But from there, he might even repeat or introduce very few changes.