After knocking Atletico Madrid out of the Champions League and claiming a quarter-final position in the European tournament, Real Madrid will return to domestic duty, facing fifth-placed Villarreal in an away encounter.
Despite their dismal results this season, Real Madrid still have a real possibility of turning things around and being serious contenders for the La Liga crown. They may not have been the greatest team in the league this season, but luck has been on their side, since their nearest opponents have not been very impressive.
Los Blancos are tied on points with first-place FC Barcelona, who have played one game less. With over 12 games remaining, there is a good likelihood that the Catalan club will shed points. To take advantage of this, Madrid must no longer neglect the league. Every game is a final, and they must play it like one.
So, without further ado, here's my effort to forecast Carlo Ancelotti's preferred lineup for the Villarreal match.
GK Thibaut Courtois
Mr. reliable. He is the most secure option for Real Madrid between the posts. There is little debate about the position he holds. As an obvious starter, he is expected to play accordingly. An easy pick.
RB Lucas Vazquez
Carlo Ancelotti may give Fede Valverde and any other players who could make the cut some much-needed rest. In addition, Lucas Vazquez has to redeem himself for the season's impending obstacles. He could receive this chance, and he should take it appropriately.
CB Antonio Rudiger
Rudiger has recently shown to be one of Los Blancos' most consistent performers. He won the Champions League tie midweek and has been in excellent spirits since. His skills would surely be necessary for the difficult game that Villarreal might offer.
CB: David Alaba
Raul Asencio needs his well-deserved recovery because the squad relies heavily on him in the grueling Champions League matches. And David Alaba has showed some indications of development, and he might use more opportunities to ultimately catch the train.
LB: Fran Garcia
Fran Garcia will have to stand in for Ferland Mendy, who suffered an injury a few days ago and is anticipated to be out for an extended period. Garcia is decent and has the potential to have a strong performance.
DM Aurelien Tchouameni
The Frenchman is back to playing like his earlier self and will be especially crucial in this game to prevent Villarreal's advance play. He will be heavily relied on and another strong performance will register him back as an undisputed starter.
CM Eduardo Camavinga
This will be an excellent opportunity for Camavinga to redeem himself. It is clear that playing as a double pivot with Tchouameni benefits him, and if he shines in this game, he may regain his reputation.
AM Jude Bellingham
Luka Modric will definitely be rested for this game, and Bellingham's fast legs will be required to stop Villarreal's counterattacks. I don't see anything significant that might jeopardize his status in the lineup tomorrow.
RW Rodrygo
Rodrygo has been excellent this season, and he needs to get started for further domestic glory. He has six goals and five assists in La Liga thus far, and he hopes to add to that total.
ST Kylian Mbappe
Mbappe has committed to the Pichichi and will begin pursuing both the league and the individual trophy. There are no concerns here.
LW Vinicius Jr
There is no replacing Vinicius. He has been one of Madrid's finest players this season and will continue to play often to preserve that status.