Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Alaves - La Liga
By Sean Walsh
Real Madrid's season gets underway on Saturday night with a trip to Deportivo Alaves.
Carlo Ancelotti is back in charge after leaving Everton to return to the Spanish capital, and he's been tasked with toppling city rivals Atletico after losing La Liga's title to them on the final day of last season.
It's a huge year for Real, but with only one new signing through the doors so far this summer, it could be a long season for Los Blancos.
How will Ancelotti set up for his first game back? Let's have a look...
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Thibaut Courtois (GK) - Was one of Belgium's standout performers at Euro 2020, and is likely going to be in a lot more action at club level this season after the departures of Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos.
Lucas Vazquez (RB) - Every football team has a few players that fans will never rate, but managers will love. Lucas Vazquez is one of those players.
Nacho Fernandez (CB) - Entering his 12th season at Real Madrid. Testimonial, anyone?
David Alaba (CB) - Real's only summer signing - a left-back by trade - arrives as their most senior centre-back. No pressure, David.
Marcelo (LB) - The 33-year-old was named as the new club captain following Ramos' move to PSG, and should start in the absence of Ferland Mendy.
2. Midfielders
Casemiro (DM) - Feels like the Brazilian has been anchoring Madrid's midfield for years and years - would you believe he's only 29?
Luka Modric (CM) - Now this is a man who is definitely not 29. 35-year-old Modric is the oldest player in Madrid's squad, but still has plenty of class.
Fede Valverde (CM) - The future of Real's midfield should start with Toni Kroos unavailable.
3. Forwards
Rodrygo (RW) - Has yet to hit the heights expected of him after a fast start to his Madrid career back in 2019. Managed only one goal in La Liga last season.
Luka Jovic (CF) - With Karim Benzema only returning to training after a bout of coronavirus a few days ago, Jovic could be handed a rare chance to show his worth up front.
Vinicius Jr (LW) - Completing a rather toothless front three on paper is 21-year-old Vinicius Jr, whose highlight from last season was being told by Benzema that he was playing so poorly that it's like he was playing against Real.