Two Real Madrid stars are officially ruled out of the high-stakes El Clásico against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Merengues, currently leading the league, have received a significant squad update ahead of the clash, with four key players returning from injury to bolster their ranks.
However, the absence of two pivotal stars will test their depth as they aim to fend off a resurgent Barcelona side under Hansi Flick, who is eager to leapfrog them in the standings.
The unavailable stars are Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, both veteran defenders sidelined by fitness issues, as confirmed by the official squad list of Real Madrid.
Their absence leaves a gap in Real Madrid’s backline, challenging Alonso to adapt against Barcelona’s potent attack, led by Lamine Yamal and Fermín López.
However, the return of Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Dani Ceballos provides a major boost.
Carvajal, a stalwart right-back, and Alexander-Arnold, a dynamic addition, strengthen the flanks, while Huijsen’s return adds depth to the center.
Ceballos, back in midfield, offers creativity alongside stars like Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Additionally, Raul Asencio is fit after minor discomfort in the recent Juventus match, further enhancing squad options.
Alonso’s likely 4-2-3-1 setup will rely on Kylian Mbappé’s goal-scoring prowess and Vinícius Júnior’s flair to exploit Barcelona’s injury-hit defense, missing Robert Lewandowski and others.
Notably, Ferland Mendy and Endrick remain the only outfield players yet to feature under Alonso, and their involvement in this high-stakes match remains uncertain.
The return of four players mitigates the blow of losing Rüdiger and Alaba, but their absence could expose vulnerabilities against Barcelona’s pacey transitions.
As the Bernabéu braces for this electrifying clash, Real Madrid’s blend of returning stars and emerging talents will face a stern test.
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