Real Madrid is preparing to face Alavés with Álvaro Arbeloa making three changes to the XI from the match in Munich.
Tchouameni is expected to return to the midfield. Huijsen is back in central defence and Carreras at left-back.
Real Madrid’s Line-Up Changes
The expected return of Tchouameni is one of three changes. Huijsen returns to the centre of defence, and Carreras is set to play at left-back.
Alavés’s Approach
Denis Suárez comes into the Alavés team in place of Pablo Ibáñez. Quique Sánchez Flores is also giving Yusi minutes on the left wing, with Parada moving to centre-back, forming a line of three centre-backs: Otto, Tenaglia and Parada.
The right flank will be covered by Ángel Pérez, with Yusi on the left. The midfield consists of Blanco, Denis and Guridi, with Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez leading the attack.
Tchouameni’s Reflection
Tchouameni spoke in a videopodcast about the match at the Bernabéu. He described it as a turning point in his Real Madrid career.
Surprise Visit From Florentino
Despite it being a midweek league game, the president, Florentino, made a point of acknowledging his players. Attention was drawn to what he did with the Turk, Güler.
Javi Moreno’s Perspective
Javi Moreno hopes Madrid will try to shrug off any injury with a win against Alavés.
He reminisces about the team from a small city that almost defeated Liverpool in the UEFA Cup 25 years ago.
Coaching Considerations
There is much discussion about potential new coaches. The important factor is whether a coach fits the squad, or whether the squad should adapt to the coach.
The decisions are on their way, but there are still seven league matches remaining.
Hypothetical Midfield Dilemma
If Madrid’s problem were the lack of a Kroos-type midfielder, and a reincarnation of Kroos were available, who would be dropped from Valverde, Tchouameni, Guler and Bellingham?
If Güler isn’t intimidated by playing alongside a player like Kroos, then, based on current form, Jude would be the one to be dropped. Tchouameni and Valverde are currently indispensable.
Warm-ups are underway at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The previous exercises for this Real Madrid – Alavés can be followed live, via the YouTube channel of LaLiga EA Sports.