Real Madrid vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: 5 players who can start with Rodrygo Goes, Gareth Bale injured
ST Luka Jovic
Maybe as you were reading through this piece you thought I would forget about Luka Jovic. But no, how could I forget about one of the famous Lukas of Real Madrid? And I do not think Carlo Ancelotti forgot about him either.
Jovic suffered a recent injury but was in the squad for Saturday’s match against Elche, as Ancelotti held out hope for him to start at striker. He was not fit for the match, as stated by the team doctors, so Real rightfully held him out and started Mariano Diaz instead.
The Serbian international is training with the team now, and so there is reason to believe he is healthy enough to return. Jovic nearly scored against Sheriff, and with transfer rumors still rolling, you just know that the young man is itching to bang home some more goals. He knows he has to take advantage of every little opportunity he gets. Starting in the Champions League, of course, is no little opportunity.
Jovic has the quality to make life miserable for the Shakhtar defense. If he is able to play, a striker partnership of Karim Benzema and Luka Jovic could be a delight to watch on the fourth Matchday of the 2021-2022 Champions League. He may be last on this list, but the former Eintracht Frankfurt man is certainly not the least worthy option. Alongside the renowned Eden Hazard, he is one of the best options Ancelotti has with Rodrygo and Bale ruled out of the attack.
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And remember, he can impact the game even when he does not score. Jovic has an assist this season in the league and is the kind of player who can create chances with subtle movements and touches in the box. Madridistas should not forget his duo of backheels in his debut season with the club. They were glimpses of his underrated all-around quality.