Real Madrid will travel to the Metropolitano this Sunday to take on Atletico Madrid in the first derby of the season. Los Blancos saw Barcelona got top with their 3-0 win over Elche but if they win their game in hand, they will regain the first spot. It is easier said than done though as Diego Simeone’s side are expected to make it difficult, as they always do.
Atletico Madrid are coming off of a 2-0 defeat in midweek and must be keen to bounce back. And what better way to do that than against their rivals.
On the other hand, Real Madrid have their perfect record this season to preserve. And when the two sides meet, Carlo Ancelotti might have a surprise up his sleeve.
Eder Militao picked up an injury against Celtic in the Champions League opener and has been out of action since then. There were question marks whether he would even be available for the derby. But it looks like he is now fit enough that he could possibly start the game against Atletico Madrid. As reported by Real Madrid’s official website, Ancelotti said regarding the Brazilian defender:
"“He’s ready to play because he has trained well. He may well start the game or come on for part of it. That’s a question mark in my mind. I’ve got to think it through properly.”"
Real Madrid star could make surprise start vs Atletico Madrid after regaining fitness
Real Madrid do have a wealth of options in central defence at the moment and as a result, Ancelotti will have no lack of options there.
The most likely route would be to start with Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba in the heart of defence, while Ferland Mendy plays left-back.
But on the other hand, Alaba could be moved to the left-back position while Rudiger teams up with someone like Militao or Nacho in central defence.
Unlike most other areas of the pitch, Real Madrid have a lot of flexibility and options there, and that is great thing.