Real Madrid vs Dortmund: 6 non-negotiable starters for Carlo Ancelotti

The Spanish capital is set to host a tremendous Champions League fixture, Real Madrid vs Dortmund. Here are 6 non-negotiable starters for Carlo Ancelotti.

In the heated football schedule, the temptation is for managers to rotate their squad for midweek fixtures. However, this is not an option as much for Real Madrid, who face European super-club Dortmund.

The fixture is the standout occasion in the Champions League this week. Of course, it is still the group phase, but serves as a rematch of the 2024 final. Real Madrid will hope for a repeated scoreline.

As Carlo Ancelotti prepares his best lineup for Real Madrid vs Dortmund, here are 6 non-negotiable starters. These decisions have essentially made themselves already...

Real Madrid vs Dortmund: 6 non-negotiable starters for Carlo Ancelotti

1. Thibaut Courtois

Andriy Lunin was not at fault for the loss against LOSC in matchweek 2. However, Real Madrid will be thankful to have Thibaut Courtois back in contention for this game against Dortmund.

The Belgium international is the best goalkeeper in the world. Therefore, in the biggest fixtures, he is always destined to start for Real Madrid.

2. Antonio Rudiger

As a Germany international, Antonio Rudiger is aware of the threat which Borussia Dortmund possesses. However, this will not faze him in a bad way, instead it will spur him on to fight harder.

Antonio Rudiger is one of the best Real Madrid players currently. He has a knack of stepping up to the big occasion, with this match certainly one of those.

3. Lucas Vazquez

Due to different circumstances, Lucas Vazquez has become a non-negotiable starter for Real Madrid vs Dortmund. He will fill the void left by Dani Carvajal's unfortunate injury.

Do not get it twisted, though. Vazquez is a club legend in his own right. So, he will be eager to leave yet another imprint on the Champions League this season.

4. Ferland Mendy

Mendy was not in the starting lineup at the weekend, which we assume means he's in line to start against Dortmund. It would be a welcomed rotation, with Ferland Mendy showing his class this season.

5. Jude Bellingham

It's a big occasion for Jude Bellingham. He is playing against his former club and a club which he holds great respect for.

However, he is now a Real Madrid player. After showcasing his great abilities in the Champions League final with an assist, he will be eager for another good showing against his former side.

6. Vinicius Junior

The best player in the world. Being a goal-scorer at the weekend is like the sky being blue.

In the Champions League, a competition which has served him well, Vinicius Junior is always incentivised to perform. This match will be no different.

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