3 ways Real Madrid can line up in midfield with Toni Kroos injured

MODRIC-CASEMIRO-VALVERDE

The best in which Real Madrid and Ancelotti can replace Kroos’ subtle yet indispensable assistance to the team is by filling the centre of the park with a very energetic option- who is capable of producing what Kroos does- only on a much heavier wavelength and with lesser experience. Plus, given that the initial fixtures have a proper one-week break between them, it is hard to imagine Los Merengues resting Modric and Casemiro from being involved in the starting elevens.

Valverde is a breath of fresh air and this will be his biggest opportunity to prove his worth to Ancelotti. Although he will not need to do much for the Italian tactician to learn about his prowess, one must note that this is the first time for the newly-appointed Real Madrid manager to have a look at Valverde, who missed a reasonable part of pre-season as well due to national commitments with Uruguay in the Copa America, and hence, an extended vacation.

He is capable of taking the ball forward and his dribbling eclipses that of any other Real Madrid player at the moment, at least among the midfielders. Valverde does not have quite the passing range as Kroos, but his flamboyant pace and ability to run at and past opposition defenders make up for that. He is also full of stamina and helps defensively too, regardless of whether it is the first minute of a game or the ninetieth.