18 January 2025

Real Madrid continues its defense of the Spanish League title on Sunday afternoon when it welcomes Las Palmas to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Los Blancos came under fire after another internal explosion Classic Last weekend during the Spanish Super Cup final. Barcelona, ​​who already beat Real Madrid 4-0 at the Bernabeu this season, He won 5-2 in the final.

After being humbled by their greatest enemies last weekend, the last thing they need is a late collapse on Thursday night. Real Madrid squandered a two-goal lead late in their Copa del Rey duel with Celta Vigo. Need extra time to get over the Galician outfit.

Carlo Ancelotti will be praying for something much simpler on Sunday with Las Palmas' trip to the capital, but injuries and suspensions will force the Italian coach to make some unwanted decisions as Real Madrid look to keep up with leaders Atletico Madrid.

Here's how Madrid It can line up.

Ibrahim Diaz

Brahim Diaz could replace the suspended Vinicius Junior

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois – He was rested in midweek against Celta after posting five goals last weekend, although the towering goalkeeper cannot be blamed for any of the goals. Las Palmas have been regular goalscorers this season despite their struggles, and Courtois should be on high alert.

Right-back: Lucas Vazquez – After being humiliated by Rafinha in the Super Cup, Vazquez produced a more consistent performance against Celta. Real Madrid desperately needs right-back reinforcements in January, but they will do it You'll probably have to wait until summer For the main target, Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Centre-back: Raul Asensio – As Madrid's defensive injuries continue, 21-year-old Asensio has been offered a surprising amount of first-team action this season.

Centre-back: Antonio Rudiger – The imminent return of David Alaba is a massive boost for Madrid, but Eder Militao's absence for the remainder of the season means Rudiger will get few breaks between now and the summer.

Left-back: Ferland Mendy – Fran Garcia could miss Sunday after suffering an injury in the cup, but Mendy is likely to start regardless. The Frenchman appears to have regained his starting place after losing it before Christmas.

Direct Defender: Federico Valverde – The Uruguayan will prove very energetic in midfield and is likely to be a greater offensive force than defensively on Sunday.

Deutschmark: Aurelien Chouaminy – The knives have been on Tshwamini's side this season, especially after some error-riddled and unconvincing performances at centre-back. With Eduardo Camavinga now in the treatment room and Luka Modric suspended, the Frenchman should be deployed in his preferred midfield role on Sunday.

Right wing: Rodrigo – One of Real Madrid's best players in the Super Cup final, he even scored an excellent free kick to reduce the deficit in the second half. The speedy winger will be keen to score the first goal against Las Palmas.

AM: Jude Bellingham – Bellingham finished last year exceptionally well and is pretty much back where he left off at the start of 2025. He has scored twice since returning from the winter break, including a dramatic 95th-minute winner in Madrid's last La Liga game.

Left wing: Brahim Diaz – Vinicius Junior has been suspended for Sunday's match after being sent off against Valencia, and Diaz or Arda Guler will be tasked with replacing his creativity. The Moroccan international may get the nod.

Striker: Kylian Mbappe – The French striker has scored six goals in his last nine matches, including the previous two for Real Madrid. He has found his form at the perfect moment in the season as Los Blancos look to get going.

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