Real Madrid Set to Shake Up Starting XI Against Athletic Club After Girona Stumble

Real Madrid are looking to end their three-match winless run in La Liga on Wednesday as they travel to face Athletic Club.

The Whites have managed only draws in their previous three league encounters and have subsequently relinquished their position at the summit, with disappointing outcomes against Rayo Vallecano, Elche and Girona increasing the pressure on Xabi Alonso. A positive response is needed in Bilbao for what represents a sixth consecutive away fixture for Madrid.

Alonso brought back several important players to his squad during the weekend's draw with Girona, but another lackluster display will compel the Spanish coach to reassess his approach. Modifications could be made for the trip to Estadio San Mamés.

Here is how Madrid might set up against Athletic.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Athletic Club (4-2-3-1)

GK: Thibaut Courtois—Courtois has faced more action than anticipated in recent fixtures and is certain to be challenged by Athletic on Wednesday. The Belgian goalkeeper usually delivers when the stakes are high.

RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold—The summer acquisition continues to deliver polarizing displays. While his ball-playing ability is exceptional, his defensive vulnerabilities have been highlighted in Spain.

CB: Éder Militão—After picking up an injury while on international duty with Brazil in November, Militão was a welcomed addition on Sunday. The defender delivered a solid performance upon his return.

CB: Antonio Rüdiger—The German defender had been sidelined since September but also returned in Catalonia, completing the full match in the stalemate with Girona. He will be vital to Madrid's efforts to reverse their recent struggles.

LB: Álvaro Carreras—Carreras was unexpectedly relegated to the substitutes' bench at the weekend, with Fran García taking his place in the starting eleven. Nevertheless, the former Benfica player will reclaim his spot against Athletic.

DM: Aurélien Tchouaméni—The French midfielder will offer essential defensive stability in the middle of the park against the hardworking Athletic side. His performance against Girona was below par, and he'll be motivated to bounce back.

DM: Eduardo Camavinga—Playing beside his fellow countryman, Camavinga could represent Alonso's second alteration from the weekend. He would bring equilibrium to the midfield if he takes the place of the attack-minded Arda Güler.

RW: Federico Valverde—Valverde has been deployed in wide areas lately as Rodrygo remains firmly planted on the substitutes' bench. The versatile Uruguayan will give maximum effort regardless of his position.

AM: Jude Bellingham—Among Madrid's standout performers against Girona, Bellingham should take up an attacking midfield position against Athletic. He represents such a crucial creative force for Los Blancos.

LW: Vinícius Júnior—Questions surrounding his future relationship with Alonso continue, but he remains a vital starter for Madrid. He earned the equalizing spot-kick at Girona and delivered another energetic performance following an excellent display against Olympiacos.

ST: Kylian Mbappé—What would Madrid accomplish without Mbappé? Another penalty conversion on Sunday brings his total to 23 goals in 22 matches across all competitions for the Spanish club this season.