Real Madrid: 5 key players to watch vs. Real Sociedad on Monday

CB Nacho

Real Madrid center back Nacho has been an example to follow for so many players in the club this season, as he has epitomized what it means to be the “next man up” when someone is injured. There is perhaps no bigger pair of boots to fill than Sergio Ramos’, yet Nacho has succeeded by reading the play expertly and showing a warrior’s heart in defense.

Nacho holds the keys to success in many ways this Monday, because Alexander Isak is tearing it up. The Swedish striker has scored in each of his last six La Liga matches, with nine of his 12 goals this campaign coming during this time span. Nacho needs to keep his head on a swivel and make smart tackles against Isak, who only needs a half-chance to break Madridistas’ hearts.

ST Mariano Diaz

Isco started up top against Atalanta as a “false nine”, and while he was more involved than Mariano Diaz in the latter’s start at Real Valladolid, it’s not like Real Madrid have found their solution with this setup either. We should see more of Isco going forward, but it appears Mariano is still expected to start.

There aren’t going to be many chances for Mariano to impress, but whenever Karim Benzema isn’t available, Mariano will be looked to as the answer in lieu of another backup (that could change with a healthy Rodrygo Goes, though). Ever since his early goal against Villarreal, Mariano has been awful. There are no two ways around it. If he does indeed start at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano, he needs to take full advantage. Benzema is set to return for El Derbi.