Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Granada: Rodrygo Goes Returns

We are finally back from the international break as the Real Madrid squad gear up for a very busy few weeks coming up where rotations will be vital. All players will have to be at their best and this will prove to be a time where certain names will get their chances to impress Carlo Ancelotti as Eden Hazard, Luka Jovic, Marco Asensio, and others have been waiting for opportunities to prove that they can be counted on when needed.

Goalkeeper

Thibaut Courtois has returned after it was agreed for him to miss the most recent Belgium game and the goalkeeper will be fully ready and fit for the weekend match. He has been integral to the club, and that shouldn’t be changing anytime soon.

Defenders

Real Madrid finally had a player who was called up to Luis Enrique’s Spain squad over the break but unfortunately, that player is Dani Carvajal who has had numerous issues with injuries. However, he has returned fit and should be taking his place at right-back on Sunday. Expect him to be rested on Wednesday against Sheriff Tiraspol though. In the center, all signs point to our newly formed and definitely our best center-back partnership in Eder Militao and David Alaba who both had a good time away with their national teams.

On the left, Ferland Mendy is expected to start after resting through the international break. He’s the current starting left-back, however, that could change in the future after reliable journalist Romain Molina tweeted the photo of a deposition alleging Mendy abused a woman in 2018.

Midfielders

There is no reason for us to expect any changes in our usual midfield trio. Carlos Casemiro will be starting in front of the defenders but will be hoping to improve his performances after a few below-par matches with the team while Toni Kroos and Luka Modric will be in the center to do what they always do best: Find the open spaces and make things happen up front. Even after all these years, it’s still a privilege to have these two at the club.

Forwards

As always, the main question when it comes to the forward line is who will start on the right? There was some hope that Gareth Bale would be making a return to the starting eleven. Ancelotti likes what he can offer but unfortunately, the Welshman got yet another injury during the break and will be out for approximately three weeks.

Therefore, it looks like Rodrygo Goes will be the starter after his return from injury. Vinicius Junior will continue being the magical presence that he is on the opposite flank, especially after taking his magic from Real Madrid to the Brazil national team over the international break. Up front, Karim Benzema will be starting and will want to build on yet another successful trip with the France national team.

Full Predicted Starting Lineup

Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, Carlos Casemiro, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Rodrygo Goes, Vinicius Junior, Karim Benzema