Monaco predicted XI v Real Madrid: Ansu Fati to start, Paul Pogba out

Ansu Fati is expected to start for AS Monaco tonight when they face Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

The Spaniard, who made his return from injury, coming off the bench against FC Lorient and scoring a goal over the weekend, is expected to replace Mika Biereth in the starting line-up. It will likely see Monaco switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Folarin Balogun spearheading the attack.

Sébastien Pocognoli will have to contend with many absentees, including Paul Pogba, Christian Mawissa, Mohammed Salisu, Lukas Hradecky, Takumi Minamino, Lamine Camara, Krépin Diatta, and Wout Faes. The latter is ineligible to compete in the UCL at this stage, whilst Camara and Diatta are yet to return from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Faes’ removal from the line-up will likely see Thilo Kehrer brought in. He missed out due to suspension over the weekend.

Philipp Kohn; Caio Henrique, Thilo Kehrer, Eric Dier, Vanderson; Jordan Teze, Denis Zakaria; Aleksandr Golovin, Ansu Fati, Maghnes Akliouche; Folarin Balogun. (L’Éq)