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Real Madrid’s expected lineup against Union Berlin: the return of Luka Modric

Published

10 months ago

September 20, 2023

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Real Madrid aim for a sixth consecutive victory as they face Union Berlin in Champions League today 16:45 GMT at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Los Blancos go into this match on the back of a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga, maintaining their perfect league record.

On the other hand, Union Berlin recently suffered a 2-1 defeat to Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga, making them eager to bounce back on the European stage.

While Real Madrid have not displayed their trademark free-flowing style early in the season, they’ve been ruthlessly efficient, securing five consecutive wins in La Liga to claim the top spot with 15 points.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side initiated their campaign with convincing victories over Athletic Bilbao and Almeria, but their last three matches against Celta Vigo, Getafe, and Real Sociedad have been narrow victories, with the latter ending 2-1 in their favor.

This Champions League fixture is a critical one for Real Madrid as they aim to make a strong start in a group that also includes Portuguese side Braga and Italian champions Napoli.

Real Madrid boasts a rich history in the competition, having clinched the European Cup a remarkable 14 times, with their most recent triumph in the 2021-22 season.

After reaching the semi-finals in the previous campaign, they are once again expected to be serious contenders this season.

Real Madrid latest team news

Real Madrid received a boost as Dani Ceballos returned to the matchday squad for the first time this season, having recovered from a hamstring injury.

Ferland Mendy also returned, although key players Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, and Vinicius Junior remain unavailable. Summer signing Arda Guler is also sidelined.

Due to a muscular issue sustained in training, Dani Carvajal will be absent, possibly paving the way for Lucas Vazquez to start at right-back as confirmed by Carlo Ancelotti in the pre-match presser.

In attack, Joselu and Rodrygo are set to continue their partnership, while Eduardo Camavinga is expected to replace Toni Kroos in midfield.

The experienced Luka Modric has already been confirmed in the starting lineup by Ancelotti.

A notable inclusion in the Real Madrid lineup is Jude Bellingham, who will make his Champions League debut for the club.

The 20-year-old midfielder has been in superb form this season, already finding the back of the net five times.