3 non-negotiable starters for Real Madrid vs Villarreal
By Kian Long
Real Madrid travel to face Villarreal in their penultimate La Liga match of the season. Of course, the title is already in Carlo Ancelotti's hands, so this has turned into somewhat of an exhibition match for him. With an excellent chance to rotate the squad, here are 3 non-negotiable starters for Real Madrid vs Villarreal...
3 non-negotiable starters for Real Madrid vs Villarreal
1. Thibaut Courtois
While it may seem counter-intuitive to label one of Andriy Lunin or Thibaut Courtois as a "non-negotiable starter" considering they are both in good form, Courtois has to start this match.
It is a golden opportunity for the Belgian international to continue his route back to full-fitness and after impressing against Alaves in midweek, he will look to continue proving himself before the UEFA Champions League final.
At this stage, Real Madrid stand a better chance of winning the Champions League final with the more experienced Courtois between the sticks. Therefore, Ancelotti must take any opportunity he can get to hand minutes to the Belgian in the buildup and this game presents a golden opportunity.
2. Arda Guler
The Turkey international wonder-kid Arda Guler is in incredible form. In his last six appearances, he has scored four goals. This is despite starting just three of those six appearances.
Guler is certainly on the precipice of greatness so Carlo Ancelotti must strike while the iron's hot by granting a start to Guler in this match, affording the youngster more invaluable La Liga minutes.
While it is unlikely Guler will be considered for the Champions League final, improving his form and confidence could be the catalyst to Guler being used as a substitute in that final, should the flow of the game require it.
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3. Brahim Diaz
Like Guler, Brahim Diaz is another young Real Madrid player who has been proving himself with limited minutes this season. In his last start against Granada, the winger scored an impressive brace.
Again, Ancelotti should reward Diaz with another start. It would also afford rest to Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, both of which started in midweek. Diaz is a worthy player to start and given the low-stakes nature of this game, his involvement would be justified from a squad rotation point of view.
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Are there any Real Madrid players who you think should start for Real Madrid vs Villarreal?