Real Madrid name squad list for league clash against Valencia

Real Madrid has announced its squad list for the upcoming La Liga game against Valencia, and it comes with both setbacks and opportunities. The match, slated to be a crucial one for Los Blancos, holds significant importance as they aim to regain the top spot in the league standings.

Heading into matchday thirteen of the 2023/2024 La Liga EA Sports season, Real Madrid look to make the most out of home advantage to grab all three points.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has lined up a 20-man squad for the match on Saturday evening at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

One of the focal points of anticipation is the potential return of midfielder Jude Bellingham to action. Fans were left disappointed in the midweek fixture against Braga when Bellingham was left with no minutes. Understandably so, because the Whites had a comfortable win on the night. The player also suffered from shoulder discomforts and no risks were to be taken.

This has heightened the eagerness to see him back on the pitch against Valencia. His presence could bring added dynamism to Real Madrid’s midfield.

Kepa out for a month

However, not all news is positive for the Spanish giants. Kepa Arrizabalaga is set to miss the upcoming game due to injury, paving the way for Andriy Lunin to likely take his place between the goalposts.

Lunin, eager to showcase his skills, faces the challenge of filling the shoes of the injured Kepa.

He did so in the game against Braga on Wednesday night, keeping a clean sheet and highlighting his night with a penalty save early in the game.

More bad news for Arda

Adding to the injury concerns, Arda Güler is also ruled out with another setback. The absence of key players due to injuries places an added burden on the squad, emphasizing the need for depth and versatility as they navigate a demanding fixture list.

Real Madrid’s quest for victory is fueled by the desire to reclaim the top spot in La Liga. Currently trailing behind leaders Girona, who face Rayo Vallecano in an early kickoff, securing three points against Valencia becomes imperative.

A win would not only propel Real Madrid up the standings should Girona fall short, but it will also boost the team’s confidence and momentum for the challenges ahead regardless of what happens in the Girona game.

In a surprising move, the 20-man squad for the Valencia clash includes players from the youth side. This signals the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent and integrating them into high-stakes matches.

The inclusion of youth players adds an element of unpredictability to the lineup, keeping fans intrigued about the potential contributions from emerging talents.

As Real Madrid prepares for the pivotal encounter against Valencia, the squad faces a delicate balance of managing injuries, relying on experienced campaigners, and entrusting young talents with significant responsibilities.

The outcome of the match could have far-reaching implications for their La Liga campaign, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts eager to witness the drama unfold on the Spanish football stage.

Full squad for the game

Goalkeepers:

Lunin, Fran and Diego Piñeiro.

Defenders:

Carvajal, Alaba, Nacho, Lucas Vazquez, Fran García, Mendy and Edgar.

Midfielders: Bellingham, Kroos, Modrić, Camavinga, Valverde and Nico Paz.

Attackers: Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Joselu and Brahim Diaz.

It must be remembered that German center back Antonio Rüdiger will miss the match due to accumulation of yellow cards.

He was given the day off on Friday and did not even take part in the final training session ahead of the game.