Real Madrid will be aiming to strengthen their lead on top of the La Liga table when they host rivals Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday (8 February).
Los Blancos are currently in the midst of an injury crisis, especially in their backline. Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are both unavailable for this, causing a headache for Carlo Ancelotti.
The gaffer will have to play certain players out of their natural positions in the derby and hope that they can produce their best.
Aurelien Tchouameni is likely to return to his centre-back role because of the sheer lack of options in that position. Raul Asencio should accompany him in the centre of defence.
Another conundrum that might plague Ancelotti is whom to play in that right-back role. At this point, it’s safer to play Fede Valverde in that position rather than the error-prone Lucas Vazquez.
That could also cause the gaffer to have to tweak things in midfield. Dani Ceballos is almost guaranteed to start thanks to his rich form and Luka Modric might get a start after shining against Leganes.
The experience of Modric can be pivotal to give Real Madrid that extra creative edge against Atletico, who are likely to play defensive football all night long.
Real Madrid’s strongest XI vs Atletico Madrid: Courtois, Valverde, Asencio, Tchouameni, Mendy, Modric, Ceballos, Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vini Jr, Mbappe