Real Madrid News
Three changes Ancelotti could make to the starting lineup for Real Madrid vs Girona
Following Barcelona’s win over Valencia, Real Madrid have momentarily slipped to the second position in the league table. However, the reigning Spanish champions will have the opportunity to regain the top spot when they take on Girona on Sunday.
Heading into this affair, we will take a look at three changes Carlo Ancelotti could make, especially after succumbing to a surprise defeat at the hands of RB Leipzig in midweek.
Federico Valverde in for Marco Asensio
Given the way Barcelona are performing in domestic competitions this season, Ancelotti is likely to field a strong starting eleven against Girona. Hence, there could be changes in the offing, one of which could see Federico Valverde replacing Marco Asensio.
The Uruguayan international had missed the midweek encounter owing to a knock. But he has been declared fit for the clash and will be desperate to continue his excellent form as he replaces Marco Asensio in the wider midfield position.
David Alaba in for Nacho Fernandez
After conceding three goals in midweek, Ancelotti might want to solidify Real Madrid’s defensive lines by replacing Nacho Fernandez with the reliable David Alaba.
The Austrian international was on the bench during the midweek encounter. But he will play a vital role against Girona, especially with his ability to move out of defence and provide quality during the build-up play.
Dani Caravajal in for Lucas Vazquez
Another defensive change in the Real Madrid setup could see Lucas Vazquez making way for Dani Carvajal.
Much like Alaba, Carvajal was also on the bench against Leipzig. But his experience, coupled with his composure and technical qualities could come in handy as Real Madrid look to break the shackles of the Girona backline tonight.
In addition to his offensive qualities, Carvajal also offers better balance on the right hand side, which could prove to be crucial in Real Madrid’s bid to quench the occasional counterattacks from the opposition.
Real Madrid will be looking to pick up their fifth win of the 2026/27 La Liga season when they take on Elche CF at Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero later tonight.
With 12 points from five games, Los Blancos are currently second in the league table, three points below leaders FC Barcelona.
As such, the Spanish capital club will be eager to get the win and close the gap to the top.
Guler starts, Bellingham rested
Ahead of kickoff, Real Madrid have announced the starting lineup that will take the field against Elche, with Jose Mourinho making some important changes.
For starters, Arda Guler is back in the lineup after appearing as a substitute in the win over Rayo Vallecano.
Interestingly, however, he starts in the attacking midfield role, with Mourinho opting to rest Jude Bellingham, who has started all of Real Madrid’s games so far.
That also means that Yan Diomande retains his place in the team, starting for a second time in a row on the right wing. Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. continue in their respective positions in attack.
Another notable change sees Aurelien Tchouameni make his first start of the season after recovering from injury and making two appearances off the bench.
He replaces Bernardo Silva as Federico Valverde’s partner in the middle of the park.
Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Marc Cucurella come in as full-backs, while Ibrahima Konate and Dean Huijsen slot in at centre-back in front of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
📋✅ ¡Nuestro XI inicial!
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) September 15, 2026
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