Mbappe's Fitness Status Could Make or Break Real Madrid's Strategy Against Alaves
With mounting injuries and poor form plaguing the squad, Real Madrid prepare to host Alavés this Sunday night as Xabi Alonso's managerial position comes under intense scrutiny.
The record 15-time European champions endured jeers from their home supporters at the Santiago Bernabéu following Wednesday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester City, intensifying speculation about internal turmoil in the Spanish capital. Los Blancos have secured only two victories from their previous eight fixtures, surrendering points against Liverpool, Rayo Vallecano, Elche, Girona, Celta Vigo and most recently, the Citizens.
The squad desperately requires maximum points to stay competitive in the La Liga championship chase with Barcelona, who currently lead the table with a commanding four-point advantage. Alonso must produce a convincing performance or risk his position at the helm of football's most prestigious institution.
However, securing victory against Alavés presents significant challenges for Real Madrid. The team will be missing injured players Éder Militão, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga, while Kylian Mbappé and Antonio Rüdiger's availability remains uncertain. Fran García, Álvaro Carreras and Endrick are also sidelined through suspension.
Here's the potential Real Madrid formation for this La Liga encounter.
Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Alaves (4-2-3-1)
GK: Thibaut Courtois—The Belgian goalkeeper has managed only two shutouts in his recent seven matches, though through no personal failings.
RB: Federico Valverde—While not his preferred role, Valverde represents Real Madrid's finest—and sole—choice for the right-back position. The midfielder could only avoid this assignment if Alonso opts for a three-man defensive setup.
CB: Aurélien Tchouaméni—With Rüdiger not completely match-fit, Tchouaméni will abandon his midfield role and resume his makeshift center-back responsibilities.
CB: Raúl Asencio—Following a disappointing Club World Cup showing, the Real Madrid Castilla graduate has successfully restored Alonso's confidence. Asencio's physical presence could prove crucial in containing Lucas Boyé.
LB: Dean Huijsen—The Spanish defender is set for his first outing in three weeks, though it may occur at left-back given the club's defensive personnel shortage.
CM: Dani Ceballos—With Camavinga sidelined and Tchouaméni required in defense, Ceballos earns his midfield starting role. The former Arsenal player will aim to improve upon his disappointing display against Manchester City.
CM: Arda Güler—The 20-year-old must overcome his recent difficulties and demonstrate to Alonso his capability in a more withdrawn position.
AM: Jude Bellingham—The attacking midfielder would relish the chance to atone for his second-half mistake against the Citizens with a goal this Sunday.
RW: Rodrygo—It would seem unfair to exclude Rodrygo following his outstanding midweek display. The Brazilian attacker recently ended his goal drought, scoring his first club strike since March.
ST: Gonzalo García—Chances to spearhead Alonso's attack are rare, and Gonzalo must rediscover his exceptional Club World Cup form to make an impact in what could be his second straight starting appearance.
LW: Vinicius Junior—The burden falls on Vinicius Jr to compensate for Mbappé's scoring contributions, yet the winger has failed to find the net in his previous 12 Real Madrid outings.
