Real Madrid vs. Cadiz Predicted Lineup for Matchday 18 of LaLiga

CM Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos will be the freshest veteran in the Real Madrid midfield this season, because he no longer has to worry about international fixtures, having retired from Germany after another disappointing major tournament (though Kroos was quite good, albeit quietly so). Kroos will almost certainly be in full command of Cadiz, who simply do not have the talent in the middle of the park to deal with Real’s midfield, specifically not Kroos. The conductor of the orchestra has produced fine performances again in 2021-2022, and he is a prime Man of the Match candidate this weekend.

DM Casemiro

It is never easy to rotate out Casemiro. Eduardo Camavinga could be an option as the No. 6, so watch for any news that tips Carlo Ancelotti’s hand. The Frenchman is a plausible starter on Sunday night. However, Casemiro has been undroppable for years, and every time a few Madridistas doubt him, he goes ahead and balls out in a big game. Casemiro was fabulous last weekend in the win over rivals Atletico Madrid and will be ready to help out against Lozano, sweeping up any attempted counterattacks from the Yellow Submarine.

CM Fede Valverde

It is a 50/50 call if Carlo Ancelotti will finally rest the tremendous Luka Modric, who was the best outfield player on the pitch in El Derbi. Modric could use the rest, as his presence will be even more important the following Wednesday at San Mames, as Athletic Club nearly beat Real a couple of weeks ago. Fede Valverde is the clear alternative to start on the right side of the formation, and his drive to go forward could lead to a goal or two for Real Madrid. After starting the 2020-2021 season hot as a goal-scorer himself, we have yet to truly see Valverde at his best offensively since then.

Update: Luka Modric has tested positive for COVID-19, so that seals Fede Valverde as a starter.