No surprises – Ancelotti will start veteran Real Madrid duo in key positions vs Arsenal | OneFootball

As Real Madrid get set to take on Arsenal in their biggest match of the season so far, there has been a lot of speculation about the starting lineup that manager Carlo Ancelotti could field.

In fact, reports earlier in the day suggested that the Los Blancos head coach was considering some very bold choices in the defensive line.

It was claimed that Ancelotti had tried a backline comprising Raul Asencio at right-back and David Alaba at left-back in training while fielding Aurelien Tchouameni and Antonio Rudiger as his centre-backs.

Federico Valverde, Dani Ceballos, and Jude Bellingham were said to be the three midfielders in that setup.

No surprises

However, according to the latest update from MARCA, Real Madrid will not spring any surprises in their starting eleven for tonight’s clash against Arsenal.

Indeed, the report claims that, Lucas Vazquez is set to start at right-back and not Asencio or Valverde. Furthermore, David Alaba will occupy the left flank, just like the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, despite struggling against Bukayo Saka.

Back in his natural position in midfield. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

It appears that Ancelotti has decided in favour of the experienced duo over changing things up for the crucial encounter. Rudiger and Asencio are set to form the central defensive pairing.

The inclusion of Vazquez in defence allows Valverde to return to his natural position in midfield, where he is most comfortable and can contribute more effectively to the team.

Dani Ceballos, who made his return in the recent match against Alaves, will begin on the bench. His involvement will depend on how the game unfolds.

Tchouameni will anchor the midfield ahead of the defence, accompanied by Valverde and Jude Bellingham.

Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. are guaranteed starters in attack. The only remaining doubt in the line-up is whether Luka Modric will be chosen to strengthen the midfield at the expense of Rodrygo.