Real Madrid’s possible starting lineup against Juventus in the Champions League

Asencio finds himself surrounded by a plague of defenders—because Xabi Alonso has only two available central defenders for tonight: Militao and Asencio himself. That’s it. Huijsen, Alaba, and Rüdiger are all still in the injury room.

The idea of moving Carreras into the middle of defense against Juventus (3pm ET) currently carries little weight. In fact, the prevailing sense is that Carreras will be rested, with the Clásico on the horizon, which would open the door for Fran García to start. At right back, Valverde will continue. He doesn’t enjoy the role, but there’s simply no alternative.

The main focus of the starting eleven lies in the back line, but other positions are also up for debate—chief among them, who will partner Tchouameni in midfield. One option is to bring Güler inside and place a true winger (Mastantuono, Rodrygo, or Brahim) on the right flank. However, the likelier choice is Camavinga, forming a midfield tandem with Tchouameni and Bellingham operating as the playmaker ahead of them.

Up front, Güler is expected to play alongside the two strikers, leaning toward the right side as he did at the Metropolitano—waving his magic wand. A footballer who has earned his place purely on merit. A creative force for Vinicius and Mbappé.

Thus, Real Madrid’s probable lineup against Juventus would be: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Militao, Fran García; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Güler, Bellingham, Vinicius; and Mbappé.