Real Madrid will look to get over their late slump in La Liga when they lock horns with Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
As predominant as they have been in the Champions League this season – beating Manchester City with aplomb in the playoffs followed by a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the round of 16 earlier this week, Real Madrid’s league form has nosedived in recent weeks.
Their struggles in La Liga were exacerbated by the defeat against Real Betis last week, leaving them with just one win in their last five games. It has also proved detrimental as rivals Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have leapfrogged them in the table.
However, Carlo Ancelotti will look to put an end to this brief rough patch this week against Vallecano, having mustered enough momentum after getting the better of Atletico in UCL.
With such a small point gap between Atletico and Barca, Los Blancos would be feeling confident to turn the tide around but at the same time, they need to make sure their struggles don’t deepen.
Moreover, the sooner they regain their momentum the better, provided Barcelona and Atletico’s impressive form and their resolve to win the title.
However, Real are expected to face a firm challenge against Vallecano, who have been a surprise package this season and are competing for European places. Both teams played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the reverse fixture in December, in which Vallecano caused all sorts of problems for the reigning champions.
Team News
Real Madrid suffered a massive setback after in-form midfielder Dani Ceballos sustained an injury last week, which will keep him out of action for a considerable time. The other long-term absentees are Dani Carvajal, Jesus Vallejo and Eder Militao.
Meanwhile, the biggest news will be the return of Jude Bellingham, who missed the last three games owing to suspension.
Predicted Real Madrid line-up vs Rayo Vallecano
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois will continue to be in goal and his presence is significant against a dangerous Vallecano side.
Defence
Raul Asencio has ingrained his position in the defence, while David Alaba might start at the expense of Antonio Rudiger, who could be rested to be fit for the second leg against Atletico Madrid. Federico Valverde, who had a phenomenal performance against Los Rojiblancos, could also be rested, with Lucas Vazquez taking the right-back spot. Meanwhile, Ferland Mendy should continue on the left flank.
Midfield
The midfield combination could be completely altered with the return of Jude Bellingham, who is likely to walk straight into the XI, while Brahim Diaz might have to settle for a place on the bench despite scoring in the 1st leg against Atletico. Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga will complete the midfield line-up.
Attack
Carlo Ancelotti is likely to stick with the fabled trio of Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo Goes in the attack, with the lattermost looking in good nick of form after scoring a belter of a goal against Atletico.
