Real Madrid are set to face AC Milan today (Tuesday, 05 November) in the Champions League’s fourth matchday at the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, this will be no ordinary fixture, as the atmosphere is overshadowed by the recent tragedy affecting thousands in the Valencian Community.
Rodrygo of Real Madrid in action during the UEFA Super Cup soccer match between Real Madrid and Atalanta BC (Pic- EPA/Piotr Nowak Poland Out)
The players have voiced their grief and acknowledged that their focus has been impacted by the heart-breaking situation, with several expressing that their hearts remain with those affected.
On the squad front, Rodrygo has made a timely recovery and is back in Carlo Ancelotti’s line-up after a muscle injury sustained against Borussia Dortmund that saw him miss the Clasico.
His return provides a much-needed boost in attack, alongside Vinicius Junior and new signing Endrick, adding firepower to Madrid’s forward line.
In goal, Thibaut Courtois remains side-lined due to his injury recovery, meaning Andriy Lunin will again step up as Real Madrid’s last line of defence. Lunin, who has impressed in Courtois’ absence, will be looking to maintain his form against the Italian giants.
As expected, Madrid manager Ancelotti has decided not to call up any players from the youth ranks, apart from reserve keepers Fran Gonzalez and Mario de Luis Mestre.
The team will also be without key defenders David Alaba and Dani Carvajal, both recovering from long-term injuries.
Despite these setbacks, Ancelotti has a strong squad at his disposal, with experienced midfielders Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, and Federico Valverde set to play crucial roles in maintaining control against Milan.
Real Madrid’s full squad for the Milan match:
Goalkeepers:
- Andriy Lunin,
- Francisco “Fran” Gonzalez,
- Mario de Luis Mestre
Defenders:
- Eder Militao,
- Lucas Vazquez,
- Jesus Vallejo,
- Francisco “Fran” Garcia,
- Antonio Rudiger,
- Ferland Mendy
Midfielders:
- Jude Bellingham,
- Eduardo Camavinga,
- Federico Valverde,
- Luka Modric,
- Aurelien Tchouameni,
- Arda Guler,
- Dani Ceballos
Forwards:
- Vinicius Junior,
- Kylian Mbappe,
- Rodrygo Goes,
- Endrick Felipe,
- Brahim Diaz
With their minds divided between football and the Valencian tragedy, Real Madrid’s players will strive to honour those affected through a committed performance, aiming to keep their Champions League campaign on track.
