Real Madrid possible lineup against Bayern Munich in semifinal second leg

Here’s how Real Madrid are expected to start their second leg tie against the Germans.

Ancelotti’s tactical board only has two question marks written on it - the rest of the names are written on in permanent ink. Against Bayern, in the second leg at the Bernabéu (3 p.m. ET/ 12 noon PT.), the doubt is in the heart of the defence. And it’s a particularly interesting decision given the domino effect it could have on the rest of the team. After the first leg that ended 2-2, everything will be decided in Spain as to who will join Borussia Dortmund in the London final.

Nacho or Camavinga, that is one question, as is Tchouaméni’s role in the XI; Carletto is clear that the battle against Bayern will have Aurélien in the eleven. The dilemma is whether he will appear on the whiteboard as central defender or in his ‘true’ position, the midfield pivot.

Who will play for Real Madrid against Bayern?

Nacho has performed well in the most recent examinations, with high marks in the Etihad game. But the Italian coach is tempted to pair Rüdiger with Tchouameni, who excels in the aerial game and in interceptions. It’s the captain’s experience versus the midfielder’s physique and abilities as a defender.

Camavinga is in a curious position as his multi-faceted qualities on the pitch make nights like these more of a difficulty for him. The possibility of using his immense versatility (he could take Mendy’s place at left back to look for an alternative) in the second half is something highly rated by the coaching staff. However, if Tchouaméni finally plays in the defensive line, the pivot will be occupied by his compatriot.

The rest of the team could be recited from memory. Kroos, after his talent show performance at the Allianz, will start alongside whichever aforementioned midfielder while Valverde will provide support on the right wing. However, as we have seen, it will be a totally different role to the one Rodrygo will have on the left. The Brazilian’s position will be very fluid.

He will be in his favourite position, practically as a striker to keep to the idea that saw Carletto’s players put in such a good night against City, but with defensive tasks typical of a midfielder. Ahead of him will sit Vinicius Jr and Bellingham. Acting almost like a central striker, although without being exactly so, Vini Jr will be the spearhead of the team. Meanwhile, Jude will act, as he did in Munich, as a second striker with a tendency to drop back and play as a midfielder.

In goal, Courtois may be an option for the potential final, but not for the second leg of the semis. “Lunin is going to play” were the words from Ancelotti ahead of the tie. As for the full-backs, after having missed the first leg due to suspension, Carvajal returns to the right side, completing a stellar campaign.

Mendy will provide the balance on the other side; despite not having as much attacking presence as his right-sided counterpart, his defensive capabilities are well known. The Champions League semifinal second-leg clash between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will be played on Wednesday 8 May 2024. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET/ 12 noon PT.