Real Madrid head to Tallinn, Estonia for their UEFA Super Cup fixture against crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid. Have a look at Lopetegui’s likely eleven.
The 2018 UEFA Super Cup sees arch rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid face off in what promises to be an intriguing contest. The Whites will be hoping to grab a third consecutive UEFA Super Cup title this year. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid will be hoping to get the better of their city rivals for the first time in four European final meetings.
This game will also be Julen Lopetegui’s official debut in the Real Madrid dugout. What better way would it be to start your career than by grabbing a piece of silverware? We take a look at the potential eleven that the former Spain coach will field against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night.
Defence
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Due to Thibaut Courtois’ lack of training and zero experience with this Real Madrid squad, all signals point towards Keylor Navas starting in Estonia. The Costa Rican will be hoping to put in a solid performance to worsen the selection dilemma that his boss is already suffering.
Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane played majority of the minutes in the friendly against AC Milan last weekend. Neither of them showed signs of being rusty. This means that the central defence pairing will be of Ramos and Varane in the highest probability.
Dani Carvajal took part in some of the matches of the Real Madrid US tour. He also played in the Trofeo Bernabeu on Saturday. He is on full level of fitness and will be the obvious choice to start against Atletico. Marcelo has also been training since his return from vacation and featured in one entire half against Milan. This makes sure that he will also be given a start against Atletico.
Midfield
Toni Kroos is the indispensable option in a customary three man midfield. The Germany international was present with Real Madrid in the United States after an early exit and has perfect fitness to feature on Wednesday.
Casemiro made his blow into the Madrid team after international duty on Saturday. He played one full half and displayed no signs of discomfort. He was on top form and will be the best bet to play at defensive midfield.
Luka Modric got an ovation as he entered the Bernabeu to play for the last half an hour against AC Milan. He was already on top gear and got a separate identity to the Madrid team. He also set up Borja Mayoral’s goal.
Attack
Gareth Bale has been promised to have a bigger role by Julen Lopetegui. He shined at the friendlies scoring once each against Juventus, Roma and AC Milan. He will be a starter against Atletico Madrid.
Karim Benzema was not in France’s World Cup squad. Hence, he also was present at Real Madrid’s US tour. The striker displayed intent and responsibility and all his outings and was great in front of goal. He could be in for a big season knowing that he will have to take responsibility after Ronaldo’s exit. He is likely to start in the middle in the Super Cup.
Marco Asensio and Isco is the big debate ahead of the Madrid Derby. In all probability, Marco Asensio will start on Wednesday ahead of his compatriot. The 22 year old has been lethal in the friendlies. Also, his left foot is a thing of beauty and can unlock the Atletico Madrid defence that sits back from long range.
Will this Real Madrid lineup hand Julen Lopetegui a memorable start to his Real Madrid career?