As Real Madrid prepare to host AC Milan in a crucial Champions League encounter, both teams are grappling with injury concerns that could shape their lineups and strategies for Tuesday night’s match.
Real Madrid continue to be without several key players. Dani Carvajal, Thibaut Courtois, Rodrygo, and David Alaba are all confirmed absentees for the Spanish giants. However, there’s positive news regarding Antonio Rudiger, who is expected to be fit despite recent concerns over a knee problem.
The extended break since El Clasico has allowed Carlo Ancelotti to fine-tune his strongest available XI. The Real Madrid manager is likely to pair Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe up front, forming a potent attacking duo. In midfield, veteran Luka Modric may be preferred over Aurelien Tchouameni, with Ancelotti prioritizing control in the center of the park.
AC Milan, on the other hand, face their own injury woes. Luka Jovic, Matteo Gabbia, Ismael Bennacer, and Alessandro Florenzi are all sidelined. However, the Rossoneri received a boost with Tammy Abraham’s return to the squad against Monza, making him available for selection against Real Madrid.
Despite a slow start to the season with only one goal, Rafael Leao is expected to start for Milan. Manager Paulo Fonseca has hinted at the Portuguese international’s inclusion in the starting XI. Emerson Royal and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are also likely to be recalled to the lineup following their recent match against Monza.
In an intriguing subplot, former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata is set to lead the line for AC Milan, facing off against his old club in a high-stakes European clash.
Real Madrid (4-3-1-2): Lunin; Vazquez, Militao, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Camavinga, Modric; Bellingham; Vinicius, Mbappe
AC Milan (4-3-3): Maignan; Royal, Thiaw, Tomori, Hernandez; Loftus-Cheek, Fofana, Reijnders; Pulisic, Morata, Leao
