Rodrygo's Comeback Sparks Real Madrid's Fearsome Fab Four Revival Against Rayo Vallecano
Real Madrid are looking to finish strong before the November international break when they face cross-town rivals Rayo Vallecano in La Liga action on Sunday.
Los Blancos experienced just their second loss of the campaign on Tuesday evening as Liverpool defeated them in Champions League play, but they have a chance to widen their lead atop the La Liga standings with a victory over Rayo. Since Barcelona won't play until later that day, Madrid could establish an eight-point gap over their competitors with a positive result.
Carlo Ancelotti's squad has secured ten victories from their 11 La Liga matches this season and should feel optimistic about visiting Estadio de Vallecas despite their recent European setback. They demolished Valencia in their previous weekend fixture, scoring four goals without reply, and will be seeking another commanding performance against their capital city counterparts.
Here's how Madrid might set up against Rayo.
Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Rayo Vallecano (4-2-3-1)
GK: Thibaut Courtois—Courtois's exceptional stops were the sole reason Madrid lost by just one goal at Liverpool, with the Belgian preventing his team from suffering a heavier defeat at Anfield. He rarely makes mistakes regardless of the occasion.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold—Alexander-Arnold faced a hostile welcome upon returning to Merseyside during the week, but Madrid will be delighted to have their summer signing back in contention. He might earn his first start since recovering from injury against Rayo.
CB: Éder Militão—With Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba sidelined through injury, Militão won't get any respite this weekend. The Brazilian, who delivered a solid performance at Anfield, will anchor the defense at Estadio de Vallecas.
CB: Dean Huijsen—Huijsen had a challenging night during his return to England, with the former Bournemouth center-back finding it difficult to cope with Liverpool's pressing game. Luckily, he'll face a Rayo team that's scoring just over one goal per match in La Liga.
LB: Álvaro Carreras—Carreras found the net last weekend as his impressive run continues, and he'll be looking to produce another outstanding performance on Sunday. He's become essential at left-back.
DM: Federico Valverde—Valverde was deployed at right-back again on Tuesday evening but should return to midfield duties against Rayo. He's far more influential in the middle of the park with his energy and remarkable work ethic.
DM: Eduardo Camavinga—With Aurélien Tchouaméni facing several weeks out due to injury, Camavinga is expected to fill in for his fellow Frenchman in the middle of the park.
RW: Rodrygo—Rodrygo hasn't been in Madrid's starting eleven since the Getafe victory but could return to the lineup on Sunday. The Brazilian will offer fresh energy on the right flank and will be eager to build chemistry with Alexander-Arnold.
AM: Jude Bellingham—Bellingham has earned a recall to the England national team following his recent hot streak, netting three times with one assist over his past four appearances. He scored during last season's 3–3 stalemate at Estadio de Vallecas.
LW: Vinícius Júnior—The Brazilian's situation remains somewhat unclear following his recent comments, and he'll be eager to quiet the critics with an impactful showing at Rayo. He's recorded five goals and four assists in La Liga this campaign.
ST: Kylian Mbappé—The French striker has failed to score in just one La Liga fixture this season, finding the net in his previous eight league appearances. Despite a subdued midweek performance, he's almost certain to play a key role on Sunday.
