Real Madrid Starting XI: Copa Del Rey Leganes

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Post on Feb 07, 2025

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Real Madrid Starting XI: Predicting the Copa del Rey Clash Against Leganés

The Copa del Rey offers Real Madrid a crucial opportunity to secure silverware and build momentum. Their upcoming match against Leganés presents a seemingly straightforward challenge, but Carlo Ancelotti will undoubtedly field a strong team to avoid any upsets. Predicting the exact starting XI is always speculative, but based on recent form, injuries, and Ancelotti's tactical preferences, we can make a reasonable guess at the lineup Real Madrid might deploy. This analysis will delve into the potential starters, considering factors like player fitness, tactical considerations, and the importance of squad rotation.

Goalkeeper: The Unwavering Kepa

Kepa Arrizabalaga is almost certain to start in goal. While Andriy Lunin has shown flashes of brilliance, Kepa’s experience and consistency make him the preferred choice for crucial matches, even in the Copa del Rey. His commanding presence and shot-stopping abilities are invaluable assets, especially in knockout competitions where a single mistake can be costly. Leganés, while a lower-tier opponent, will still pose a threat, and Kepa's reliability provides a solid foundation for the team.

Defense: A Blend of Experience and Youth

The defense is where Ancelotti might choose to implement some rotation, balancing experience with the need to give younger players minutes. While the usual suspects like Éder Militão and David Alaba are likely contenders for starting spots, we might see some changes.

• Right-Back: Dani Carvajal's experience and attacking prowess make him a strong candidate to start. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset, especially against a team that might try to exploit space on the flanks.

• Left-Back: Ferland Mendy might be given a rest, allowing Fran García a chance to showcase his abilities. This rotation strategy allows Ancelotti to manage the workload of his key players while providing opportunities for up-and-coming talents to gain valuable experience.

• Center-Backs: While Rüdiger and Militão are strong contenders, Ancelotti might opt for a more experienced pairing, starting Nacho Fernández alongside Alaba. Nacho's versatility and experience in various defensive roles makes him a reliable choice, ensuring a strong and organized backline. This combination offers a blend of experience and tactical flexibility.

Midfield: Control and Creativity

The midfield is where Real Madrid’s dominance will be most evident. Ancelotti is likely to field a midfield trio that combines defensive solidity with creative playmaking.

• Defensive Midfielder: Aurelien Tchouaméni will likely anchor the midfield. His ability to win back possession, distribute effectively, and provide defensive cover is crucial to the team’s overall balance. His presence allows the more attacking-minded midfielders to push forward with confidence.

• Central Midfielders: Luka Modrić and Federico Valverde form a dynamic duo. Modrić's passing range, vision, and experience are invaluable, while Valverde provides energy, pressing, and an attacking threat. This midfield partnership offers a potent blend of experience, creativity, and dynamism. This combination is vital for controlling the tempo of the game and dictating the flow of play.

Attack: A Familiar Front Three?

The attacking trident is likely to remain largely consistent, although some slight variations are possible.

• Right Wing: Rodrygo Goes’s pace, trickery, and goalscoring ability makes him an almost certain starter. His direct running and ability to create chances from wide areas will be key to stretching the Leganés defense.

• Center Forward: Karim Benzema is likely to lead the line. Despite his age, Benzema remains one of the most prolific strikers in the world, and his link-up play and goalscoring prowess will be crucial against any opponent. His intelligent movement and clinical finishing make him a constant threat.

• Left Wing: Vinicius Junior's electrifying pace and dribbling skills make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and deliver dangerous crosses will be key to breaking down a potentially stubborn Leganés defense.

Potential Substitutions and Tactical Flexibility

Ancelotti is known for his tactical flexibility, and he might adjust the lineup based on the game's flow. Players like Eduardo Camavinga, Brahim Díaz, and Joselu are all strong candidates for substitute appearances, providing different tactical options depending on the situation. Camavinga's energy and defensive contributions could be crucial if the game becomes more open, while Díaz’s creativity and goal-scoring threat could be valuable late on. Joselu's presence adds aerial strength and another scoring option off the bench.

The Importance of Rotation

The Copa del Rey provides Ancelotti with a valuable opportunity to manage the workload of his key players. Rotation is crucial to ensure freshness and prevent injuries as the season progresses. Giving fringe players game time also boosts morale and allows them to demonstrate their abilities.

Conclusion: A Strong Lineup for a Comfortable Win?

Based on the available information, a strong and experienced Real Madrid team is likely to face Leganés. While Leganés will certainly fight hard, the superior quality and depth of Real Madrid's squad should make them comfortable favorites. The predicted lineup offers a blend of experience and youth, ensuring a balance of tactical stability and the opportunity for squad rotation. The game should provide a good test for some of the squad players while allowing Ancelotti to prepare for more challenging matches ahead. The ultimate outcome depends on the performance on the day, but Real Madrid should be confident of progressing to the next round of the Copa del Rey.