Sunday brings the ultimate test for Real Madrid. They’re staring down their toughest challenge of the season, a clash with Atletico Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Matchday 7 of La Liga. And let’s be real, if Jose Mourinho wants to buck that ugly historical trend at the Metropolitano, he’s got to get this lineup absolutely perfect before the international break.
The Derby Demands: Standings and Stakes
This isn’t just another game. Real Madrid heads into this derby sitting second in the league with five wins in six outings, trailing only FC Barcelona, who’ve pulled off a perfect six for six. Their last match was a nail-biter, a 3-2 win over Elche, sealed by a stoppage-time winner from new signing Carlos Espi. Atletico, on the other hand, is rolling into this one in fourth place with 13 points from six games, fresh off back-to-back 3-0 victories over Real Sociedad and CA Osasuna. Historically, Los Blancos haven’t exactly dominated at the Metropolitano in La Liga. Mourinho needs to change that narrative now, or the international break is gonna feel extra long for Real Madrid fans.
Mourinho’s Hand: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
Mourinho’s got some tough calls, especially with Eder Militao, Rodrygo Goes, and Ferland Mendy still sidelined. But the good news for the attacking front is huge: Jude Bellingham is expected to return to the lineup after getting some well-deserved rest against Elche. This England international has kicked off the season brilliantly, and he’s going to be absolutely key for Real Madrid to come out on top here.
Between the sticks, Thibaut Courtois remains the undisputed starter and is probably bracing himself for the usual hostile reception at the Metropolitano. On defense, Denzel Dumfries, the summer arrival, is expected to start at right-back, taking over from Trent Alexander-Arnold after winning that battle. World Cup winner Marc Cucurella is slated for left-back, ahead of Alvaro Carreras despite Carreras’s strong showing against Rayo Vallecano. Dean Huijsen, back in the Spain squad, will pair up with Ibrahima Konate at centre-back. In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni, who got his first start against Elche after recovering from injury, is seen as integral by Mourinho and his staff for balance, so expect him to feature again. Club captain Federico Valverde, a permanent fixture under Mourinho, will partner Tchouameni. Up front, Arda Guler is expected to start on the right flank, replacing Yan Diomande after his back-to-back starts.
This derby isn’t just about three points; it’s about sending a statement. It’s about breaking a frustrating trend and building crucial momentum as they head into the international break. Real Madrid needs to bring the heat on Sunday.
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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