Real Madrid is rolling, 3-0 in the Champions League, and manager Jose Mourinho just dropped the lineup for today’s clash against AEK Athens in Greece. The absolute biggest news? Eder Militao, after what felt like an eternity recovering from a long-term injury, is making his first start of the season. He’s been out for over six months, only just returned to action against Sevilla in October, and now Mourinho is throwing him right into the deep end for a Champions League showdown. That’s a statement.
The Backline Gets a Major Boost
Militao’s return is huge for the Merengues defense. He’s partnering up with Antonio Rudiger at the heart of the backline, which means Ibrahima Konate and Dean Huijsen are dropping out of the starting XI. This isn’t just a tweak, it’s a significant shift back to a proven pairing, and it speaks volumes about how confident Mourinho is in Militao’s recovery. On the flanks, Denzel Dumfries steps in at right-back, replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold. Marc Cucurella, as usual, holds down the left side. And between the sticks, the wall himself, Thibaut Courtois, is starting in goal. You know the score: with Courtois back there, Real Madrid’s got a rock.
Midfield Masterclass and Attack Unleashed
In the midfield, we’re seeing some interesting choices. Eduardo Camavinga gets the nod, stepping in for his compatriot Aurelien Tchouameni, who is getting a well-deserved rest. Bernardo Silva will be partnering Camavinga in that double pivot, so expect some serious control and creativity in the middle of the park. Federico Valverde, despite returning from a minor injury, isn’t starting, which shows Mourinho is playing the long game with his star players. Up front? Oh man, this is where it gets spicy. Vinicius Jr. is starting, and get this: his four-match domestic suspension does *not* apply in the Champions League. He’ll be in his usual terrifying spot on the left flank. In-form winger Yan Diomande is moving to the right, and the lineup is rounded out by none other than Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe. That’s a forward line designed to absolutely dismantle defenses.
Real Madrid is absolutely intent on making it four wins in a row, extending their perfect Champions League record against AEK Athens today. With Militao back and that offensive firepower, expect fireworks and a strong push to continue this dominant run. This is what it’s all about.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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