Real Madrid prepare for their La Liga season opener against Espanyol with Jose Mourinho at the helm, though uncertainty surrounds one crucial defensive position. According to reporting from El Partidazo de COPE, the Portuguese manager has largely settled on his starting lineup, with one notable exception in the centre-back role.
The expected lineup features Thibaut Courtois in goal, with Denzel Dumfries preferred at right-back over Trent Alexander-Arnold. Dean Huijsen will occupy one central defensive spot, while the other remains contested between Antonio Rudiger and Ibrahima Konate. Alvaro Carreras is anticipated to start at left-back as Marc Cucurella recovers from international commitments. In midfield, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde are set to partner, with Bernardo Silva beginning on the bench despite his summer arrival.
Attacking duties will be handled by Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz in creative positions, with both Jude Bellingham and Yan Diomande expected to start from the bench. Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe spearhead the forward line, providing significant attacking prowess. The selection appears pragmatic rather than ideal, reflecting squad management following a complicated pre-season during which players returned at staggered intervals.
Mourinho’s priority appears centered on deploying his most prepared personnel for the opening fixture, with full integration of all key players expected to develop over subsequent weeks as match fitness improves across the squad.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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