Real Madrid’s Predicted XI against Rayo Vallecano

Following a successful week in Europe against Celtic in the UEFA Champions League, all eyes are back on La Liga as Real Madrid, with a record this season of 10-2-0, will be away from home facing off against Rayo Vallecano. Los Blancos will be looking to reignite their winning rhythm after a disappointing draw against Girona last weekend that saw their lead at the top of the table shrink to just one point.

Rayo Vallecano is coming into this match at 9th place with a decent record of 5-3-4 thus far. Rayo leads the league this season in multiple and notable categories with: 2nd highest in tackles won, 2nd highest in long passes completed, 1st in crosses overall, and 2nd highest in tackles in the middle third of the pitch. They are a team that works very hard to win the ball back and will look to pass any blocks or pressure with a more direct and physical style of play that will challenge Real Madrid’s more fluid and dynamic style.

This should be a great fixture to watch as Real Madrid will want to preserve their unbeaten league run so far. The neutral would expect Los Blancos to get all three points given their favourable head to head record for this fixture and their recent form with players like Luka Modric and Federico Valverde showing their quality week in and week out.

All stats referred to in this article are provided by FBref.

Real Madrid’s Predicted XI against Rayo Vallecano

Here’s how we think Real Madrid could line up when they take on Rayo Vallecano at Estadio de Vallecas:

Goalkeeper – Thibaut Courtois

Courtois has been in imperial form and will no doubt get the start when he is healthy.

RB – Dani Carvajal

The veteran right-back has generally been consistent this season and should get the nod over Lucas Vazquez as Carlo Ancelotti will want to minimize rotations.

CB – Eder Militao

The Brazilian has improved his level of performances this season keeping several strikers in his pocket. No doubt a starter.

CB – David Alaba

Although there is a case for Toni Rudiger to get more playing time, there is a certain level of stability with an Alaba/Militao pairing, especially when Real Madrid are expected to have more possession.

LB – Ferland Mendy

Real Madrid’s only solid left-back option, he will need to start as Ancelotti will want to increase all chances of getting the three points.

CM – Eduardo Camavinga

The young Frenchman will be tasked with breaking the lines and playing a box to box role. He will need to make sure he is able to improve his composure to fill in for Toni Kroos.

CM – Aurelien Tchouameni

Real Madrid look a different side without the former AS Monaco player and will need his presence if they are to take control of the game.

CM – Luka Modric

Luka Modric keeps aging like fine wine. A staple in the side, he is a must if Ancelotti is serious in maintaining Real Madrid’s lead at the top of the table. Barcelona are two points ahead now, having played a game more.

LW – Vini Jr

Vini Jr is key player as he links up incredibly well with Karim Benzema and is Real Madrid’s creative outlet and main counterattacking option on the wings.

CF – Rodrygo 

With Benzema out, the young Brazilian will be tasked with being a threat in the penalty area.

RW – Fede Valverde

Arguably Real Madrid’s most important player, Valverde will be always be clutch with his work-rate and unpredictability in the middle and final third.