Real Madrid vs Osasuna preview: Zidane to opt for Plan B to prepare for derby

Zinedine Zidane will rotate his Real Madrid XI this Wednesday evening in their meeting with Osasuna, with half an eye on the weekend's Madrid derby at the Wanda Metropolitano.

But still hoping to win and stay top of the table, the Frenchman will rely on a few of his more relied-upon players, while combining them with some of the more peripheral characters.

Dani Carvajal and Raphael Varane could be rested at the back, making way for Eder Militao and Alvaro Odriozola. On the left, Nacho Fernandez may start in the absence of Marcelo and Ferland Mendy.

Luka Modric and Isco are expected to play in the derby, but the long list of injuries doesn't allow for much difference in midfield, meaning Casemiro and Fede Valverde are expected to feature in midweek. Beyond them, it's not known is Lucas Vazquez, Rodrygo Goes or Vinicius Junior will feature on the flanks.

Karim Benzema should remain in the XI up top and he could be joined by either Vinicius or Luka Jovic.

Wednesday will be a night for Zidane's Plan B.