Real Madrid: 5 backup players who could get an opportunity vs. Osasuna

RW Sergio Arribas

Sergio Arribas could play in a number of different positions for Real Madrid if he starts against Osasuna. After Barcelona’s loss, Real see more of an opportunity to win La Liga, and they must win every match in order to have a good shot at the league. Therefore, Zinedine Zidane may not risk starting Arribas, who has never started this season.

However, Zidane seems to trust Arribas. No Castilla player has been used more frequently this season than the 19-year-old. He has made nine appearances in all competitions for a total of 151 minutes, with two appearances coming in the Champions League and seven in La Liga.

So we should not be totally surprised if Arribas gets a start in his 10th league appearance this weekend vs. Osasuna. Arribas is an accurate passer who makes smart decisions in the final third and is quite polished on the ball. Aside from his old-school look, his clean play and direct passing have impressed Madridistas, who respect seeing a winger with his work-rate. And it is not easy to find a young prospect from Castilla with his polished passing.

Arribas would not be out of place in the starting XI against Osasuna, regardless of the stakes. If he gets the start, it is a massive opportunity for Arribas to show the world that he is more than just “intriguing” and can add legitimate excitement and production to Real Madrid.