Real Madrid: The strongest starting XI for three possible formations

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Fede Valverde of Real Madrid. (Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images) /

The 4-4-2

The 4-4-2 formation brings with it memories of the 2013/14 season when Ancelotti used it extensively. The Italian may very well bring with him his signature formation into the team.

GK- Thibaut Courtois

Courtois would be the starter irrespective of the formation Real Madrid plays in.

LB- Miguel Gutiérrez

Having four midfielders who can cover up for wing-backs makes the 4-4-2 an adequately defensive formation. Therefore utilizing Miguel Gutierrez, who is more attacking-minded, could be more preferred in this formation.

LCB – David Alaba

RCB- Eder Militao

RB- Dani Carvajal

LM – Eden Hazard

Eden Hazard is the best candidate for the LM position. His playmaking skills could be put to good use in this formation. As a link between the midfield and the attack, he can be valuable.
Moreover, he could convert to a No.10 in a 4-4-2 diamond midfield. In this setup, he would get the freedom to roam across the pitch, in which he can cause havoc to the opposition defenders. Isco operated in a similar role in the 2016/17 season under Zidane.

Central Midfielders- Toni Kroos & Luka Modric

Kroos and Modric could operate in a double pivot midfield. Kroos can acquire a deeper role, while Modric can dictate the play from a comparatively advanced position. Casemiro could provide fresh legs at the latter stages of the match or even start ahead of Kroos or Modric.
Camavinga and Blanco could hugely benefit from this midfield formation, as both of them are familiar with this role.

RM- Fede Valverde

Valverde is best suited to the right-midfield position, where he can showcase his pace and ball-handling capabilities with more freedom. He is the best equipped Real Madrid player who can run up and down the flanks for the entire match. Valverde also has the defensive work rate to excel in this role.

Karim Benzema(LS) and Gareth Bale (RS)

Benzema and Bale can partner up for a formidable attacking duo. Bale has the finishing abilities as well as aerial presence to excel in this role.

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