Mbappé out, Endrick in: Real Madrid’s new-look XI vs Athletic

With the Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal now in the rearview, Real Madrid turn their focus to LaLiga – and to managing energy levels ahead of a season-defining Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. Two league fixtures stand between them and El Clásico, beginning with today’s home game against Athletic Club, a demanding test at the Bernabéu before a more rotation-friendly outing at Getafe midweek.

For Carlo Ancelotti, this doubleheader is all about balance. And while tonight’s match arrives with the stadium in full plebiscite mode, the true tactical breathing space may only come in the second of the two games.

Mbappé out, Endrick ready

The fallout from Tuesday’s Champions League battle has left the squad bruised. Kylian Mbappé is unavailable, ruled out with a sprain to his right ankle. In brighter news for Madrid, Lunin and Camavinga both return to the squad. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has been sidelined for two weeks with a calf injury, while Camavinga missed the Arsenal match through suspension.

Thibaut Courtois will keep his place in goal, but changes are expected in front of him. Fede Valverde may shift back to right-back to give Lucas Vázquez a break after two consecutive starts. On the opposite flank, Fran García will again deputize for the still-absent Ferland Mendy, with Rüdiger and Asencio likely to continue as the central duo.

Further forward, the picture becomes less clear. Dani Ceballos is expected to start, having built up rhythm in recent matches, while either Aurélien Tchouameni or Eduardo Camavinga will partner him in midfield.

In attack, Madrid’s famed “Fantastic Four” will be down to three – or maybe even two. Vinicius and Bellingham are near-certain starters. Mbappé is out, and Rodrygo could be rested, opening a lane for Brahim Díaz, who has barely featured in recent weeks. But the most intriguing storyline may be the likely debut La Liga start for Endrick. The teenage Copa del Rey top scorer could finally lead the line, with Mbappé’s absence clearing the path.

Ancelotti’s possible XI vs Athletic Club

As it stands, the projected starting eleven looks like this: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rüdiger, Fran García; Camavinga or Tchouameni, Ceballos; Brahim, Bellingham, Vinicius; Endrick.

Completing Ancelotti’s matchday squad: Lunin, Fran González, Lucas Vázquez, Vallejo, Alaba, Modrić, Arda Güler and Rodrygo.

Only two players in the squad – Lucas Vázquez and Ceballos – are one yellow card away from suspension. Should either be booked tonight, they’ll miss Wednesday’s trip to Getafe.

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