Rodrygo's Starting Spot in Question as Real Madrid Face Real Oviedo: Predicted XI Revealed

Xabi Alonso aims to guide Real Madrid to success in their inaugural away fixture of the campaign against Real Oviedo.

Real Madrid commenced their 2025–26 La Liga season with a narrow 1–0 triumph over Osasuna courtesy of Kylian Mbappé's converted spot-kick. While the display at the Santiago Bernabéu fell short of expectations, it secured the crucial three points.

Los Blancos are hoping for a more commanding performance on Sunday at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere. Stars like Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior should experience little difficulty scoring against the promoted outfit, even if Rodrygo remains sidelined should Alonso choose to exclude the winger once more.

The Brazilian forward will travel to Oviedo, however, alongside Antonio Rüdiger, who has returned from his suspension. Real Madrid will be missing only the injured quartet of Jude Bellingham, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick.

Here's how Real Madrid's starting eleven might appear against Real Oviedo on Aug 24.

Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Real Oviedo (4-3-3)

GK: Thibaut Courtois—Courtois aims to achieve consecutive clean sheets to begin the 2025–26 La Liga campaign.

RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold—The England defender had limited involvement against Osasuna and will be keen to contribute more significantly in Sunday's encounter.

CB: Éder Militão—Despite Rüdiger's availability following suspension, Militão is anticipated to partner with Huijsen after his excellent displays since recovering from injury. Alonso might field both center-backs if he opts for a three-man defense.

CB: Dean Huijsen—Besides Mbappé, the 20-year-old was Real Madrid's standout performer in their La Liga curtain-raiser. Huijsen provides both solidity and flair to the defensive line.

LB: Álvaro Carreras—The ex-Benfica player impressed in his Santiago Bernabéu bow on Tuesday. He aims to further develop his understanding with Vinícius Júnior on the left side.

CM: Fede Valverde—Valverde is set for his 325th outing in the famous white jersey. He will again don the captain's armband.

CM: Aurélien Tchouaméni—Following extended periods at center-back over the past two campaigns, Tchouaméni has returned to his preferred midfield role.

CM: Arda Güler—Alonso continues developing Güler as Luka Modrić's eventual replacement. The Turkish midfielder will earn his ninth straight start in the middle of the park.

RW: Brahim Díaz—The right wing remains the sole position with uncertainty. Following Rodrygo's bench role against Osasuna, Díaz appears likely to start again. Alonso might also give Franco Mastantuono his maiden start.

ST: Kylian Mbappé—The French striker proved decisive in Real Madrid's season opener, netting his 45th goal in club colors. Mbappé seeks to score in his seventh straight league fixture.

LW: Vinícius Júnior—Vinícius Júnior needs just one more goal to overtake Gareth Bale on Los Blancos' historical scoring charts.