Real Madrid will face Shakhtar Donetsk next in mid-week after the scheduled game against Athletic Club in LaLiga was postponed due to the South Americans on national duty who wouldn’t have returned in time and health to face another intense Matchday in the league. As such, players who have an extended gap and some much-needed time for rejuvenation before they take the pitch in the Champions League again.
Los Blancos had a night to forget last time out in the Champions League losing 2-1 at home to underdogs Sheriff Tiraspol. They’d look to improve their campaign against Shakhtar. However, there is an important factor involved- the revenge factor. Shakhtar beat Real Madrid on both occasions in the group stage last season. So this season, Real Madrid will eye revenge, a feeling that has worked in favor of Real Madrid for several occasions in the past. Here are the five key players who’d be important in this revenge mission.
5. FERLAND MENDY
Real Madrid is getting one key starter back in their side in Ferland Mendy. With Real’s central defense looking shaky, Ferland Mendy could be very important to Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for leading this revenge mission. Several fans think Mendy has the positional smartness required to play at central defense and I am of a similar opinion.
Real Madrid’s mainstay of Eder Militao and David Alaba cannot start the next match given Militao’s injury during national duty. Alaba too suffered a knock to his knee but is hopeful of playing in the game against Shakhtar. Given the way Nacho has been playing so far, having Mendy back is a big boost.
He has been the difference-maker several times for Real Madrid, the wonder goal against Atalanta in the round of 16 last season is a great example. Mendy offers a lot going forward too and is more reliable than Miguel Gutierrez at the back. Don’t get me wrong, I think the Castilla prodigy is a future superstar but there’s no denying that Mendy is first-choice if the question is about the left fullback position.
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