Ancelotti will introduce some changes after the debacle in Jeddah, probably one per line.
Real Madrid return to action after their setback in the Clásico, where they suffered a humiliating 2-5 defeat against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Jeddah.
This time, they are back home, playing in front of their fans against Celta in the Copa del Rey round of 16. Los Blancos began their campaign in this competition with a dominant 5-0 victory over Deportiva Minera in Cartagena. However, they now face a tougher opponent, a Primera División side, although Celta will be weakened by the absence of their star player, Iago Aspas.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to make changes to the starting lineup, both for tactical reasons following the poor performance against Barça in Saudi Arabia and to manage player fitness amidst a relentless schedule. Unless a miracle occurs and Madrid qualify for the Champions League quarterfinals—an outcome that seems highly unlikely with just two games left in the group stage—they won’t have a week off until May.
Who will play for Real Madrid against Celta Vigo?
The first change comes in goal: Andriy Lunin will start, as Thibaut Courtois hasn’t even been called up for this match. Before their Copa debut against La Minera, Ancelotti avoided confirming whether Lunin would take over as the tournament’s designated goalkeeper. Now, with the arrival of a stronger opponent and Lunin still in goal, it seems likely he will continue in the competition. Fran González and Mestre will be available as emergency options on the bench.
In defence, the key change will be the inclusion of Asencio in the starting eleven. The academy product was a substitute against Barça, with Tchouaméni taking his place. The Frenchman performed poorly and has failed to win over the fans, whether playing as a central midfielder or a central defender. Ancelotti is expected to rest him against Celta, partly to avoid any potential backlash from the crowd. Rüdiger will join Asencio as the other centre-back. At right-back, Lucas Vázquez is the only viable option, as Ancelotti doesn’t consider Lorenzo ready for a match of this magnitude. On the left, Mendy is likely to make way for Fran García.
In midfield, Madrid is expected to continue with the 4-2-3-1 formation that helped them regain momentum. Camavinga is likely to start on the bench, with Ceballos stepping into the starting lineup to provide more control in possession—something the team struggled with in Jeddah. Ceballos will likely partner with Valverde in the double pivot, while Bellingham operates in a more advanced midfield role.
In attack, Brahim Díaz is a strong contender to replace Rodrygo on the right wing. Up front, Mbappé is set to lead the line, while Vinícius, who is suspended for the next two league matches, will occupy the left flank.