Possible lineups for Real Madrid vs Athletic – Endrick could start
The deep reflection underway at Real Madrid following their Champions League quarterfinal exit has led to several shifts in the roadmap laid out by Florentino Pérez and his board. A squad renewal could begin as soon as tonight.
Real Madrid and Athletic Club are set to clash tonight at the Santiago Bernabéu in a match corresponding to Matchday 32 of LaLiga.
After being eliminated from the Champions League, Los Blancos are under pressure to win—especially following Barcelona’s controversial last-minute win over Celta Vigo at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
Ancelotti: “We want to stay in the title fight”
Coach Carlo Ancelotti said in the pre-match press conference:
“We have to play an intense game. Both teams played in Europe recently, and I congratulate Athletic on reaching the Europa League semifinals and being so close to the final at San Mamés. Athletic Club is intense and plays very well. We’ve had time to prepare and tomorrow we want to stay in the fight for LaLiga.”
Ernesto Valverde also recognized the challenge:
“We come from a win, but haven’t had time to enjoy it. And it took a toll on us. We’re playing a Real Madrid side that’s fighting for LaLiga. When they lose a competition, it seems like an earthquake—but they can still win both LaLiga and the Copa del Rey.”
Endrick, the surprise starter
Ancelotti is expected to field his strongest available lineup, with Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. starting from the first whistle.
The only real uncertainty is in midfield, where Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga are vying for a starting spot. Camavinga is returning to the XI after missing the Arsenal clash.
With Kylian Mbappé out, Ancelotti is considering giving Endrick a starting role. The Brazilian wonderkid may also be key in the upcoming Copa del Rey final, and tonight could be a big opportunity for him to shine.
Predicted lineups:
Real Madrid:
Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rüdiger, Fran García; Camavinga or Tchouaméni, Ceballos; Brahim, Bellingham, Vinicius; Endrick
Athletic Club:
Unai Simón; Gorosabel, Paredes, Yeray, Lekue; Galarreta, Prados; Berenguer, Unai Gómez, Djaló; Guruzeta
