Real Madrid Predicted Lineup at Athletic Club: Will Eden Hazard start again?
LW Vinicius Junior
Vinicius Junior had a rare below-average outing against Cadiz. He was lively and active, but he was wasteful and often took too many touches in the box. The Brazilian superstar has been one of Europe’s best players in 2021-2022, and he should bounce back quickly. Vinicius roasted the Bilbao defense in their last head-to-head meeting, and Madridistas would expect nothing less from the world-class left winger on Wednesday night. I would back Vini to have a goal contribution in this one.
CF Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema missed most of the match against Real Sociedad with an injury, all of the match against Inter Milan, and the second half of the win over Atletico Madrid. Thus, he was questionable aginst Cadiz, but he started. He did not look 100 percent, though, missing chances and looking way too hesitant on the ball. Benzema has been one of the best players in the world this year and this season, but he has cooled off lately due to various fitness concerns.
It would mean everything to both him and the team for Benz to come up huge at San Mames once more. Real Madrid need Benz to be productive in this match in order for them to close out 2021 with all three points. Sevilla, after all, are not far behind in the table.
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RW Eden Hazard
Yes, I do think Eden Hazard will start again, especially with all the COVID-19-related questions on the right wing. Hazard is much better cutting into his right foot from the left, so expect to see the Belgian in the free role. Athletic Club will not treat Hazard kindly, so this is going to be a big test before 2022 to see how Hazard truly stacks up against top defensive competition.
He was quietly great in the second half of the 0-0 draw with Cadiz, standing out as the team’s best attacker after bouncing back from a subpar first half. That bodes well for Hazard, who will try to impress Carlo Ancelotti again at San Mames. All the best to him. Every Madridista should be rooting for the No. 7’s success.