Real Madrid vs. Celta Vigo: 3 possible defensive lineups without David Alaba
LB Miguel Gutierrez, CB Ferland Mendy, CB Nacho Fernandez, RB Dani Carvajal
Call this highly unlikely with a dash of unorthodox, but we have heard rumors about how Carlo Ancelotti may intend to experiment with Ferland Mendy at center back. Since Real Madrid acquired David Alaba and, most importantly, have unearthed a future star in Miguel Gutierrez, Ancelotti may be interested in testing out Mendy’s flexibility.
Not only may he want additional options in central defense with Jesus Vallejo listed as the fourth man at the position, but he may also even view Mendy’s future at center back. Of the three left backs, Mendy is the least apt at crossing, which is of note.
It would be more ideal to try this out when Mendy is 100 percent and can focus on the new tasks of playing in the middle of the defense. And a match against the likes of Iago Aspas is not an easy one either.
That said, it may be easier on Mendy’s legs to play at center back than at left back. Speaking of legs, Eder Militao must be tired after recently playing for Brazil, so he may need rest. Furthermore, Ancelotti may view Miguel Gutierrez as a nailed-on starter, seeking to take advantage of the chemistry and young star power of Vinicius Junior and Miguel on the left-hand side after how well they have been playing.
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Consider this the least likely of the formations, as Nacho is a much more known commodity. But with Nacho also recovering from an overload against Betis and Militao tired after recent international duty, Mendy at center back is a wild card worth tucking away, even if it does not happen in this game with Alaba out.