Real Madrid Predicted Starting Lineup Vs. Atalanta: UEFA Super Cup Preview

Introduction

The 2024/25 season of European football kicks off with a thrilling encounter as Real Madrid faces off against Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday in Warsaw, Poland. This prestigious match will not only mark the beginning of a new season but also offer the first piece of silverware. As Real Madrid aims to make history with their sixth UEFA Super Cup title, Atalanta will look to secure their first-ever trophy in this competition. This article delves into the expected lineup for Real Madrid, key player updates, and what to anticipate from this exciting clash.

Real Madrid’s Quest for History

Seeking a Record Sixth Title

Real Madrid’s rich history in European competitions is well-documented, and their pursuit of a sixth UEFA Super Cup title is a testament to their enduring dominance. Currently tied with FC Barcelona and AC Milan at five trophies each, Real Madrid has the chance to break this tie and set a new record. This achievement would solidify their position as the most successful team in the history of the UEFA Super Cup.

Atalanta’s Historic Opportunity

For Atalanta, the UEFA Super Cup final represents a monumental moment in their history. This will be their first-ever appearance in this competition, and securing a victory would be a landmark achievement for the Italian club. The stakes are high as they look to challenge the established giants and make their mark on European football.

Real Madrid Team News

Injury Updates and Squad Fitness

Heading into the Super Cup, Real Madrid boasts a nearly fully fit squad, which is a significant advantage for coach Carlo Ancelotti. The only notable absentee is David Alaba, who remains sidelined with an injury. Alaba’s absence will be felt, but Real Madrid’s depth in their squad should allow them to cope effectively.

New Signings and Tactical Changes

The 2024/25 season brings fresh faces to Real Madrid, notably Kylian Mbappé and Endrick Felipe, who are expected to make their competitive debuts. The integration of these attacking talents into Ancelotti’s setup could be a game-changer for Real Madrid. The team will need to adapt their tactics to accommodate these new additions, potentially shifting their formation or style of play.

Post-Toni Kroos Era

With the retirement of Toni Kroos in the summer, Real Madrid enters a new phase without one of their midfield stalwarts. Kroos’s vision, passing accuracy, and experience were pivotal for the team, and Ancelotti will need to find suitable replacements or adjust the team dynamics to fill this void.

Predicted Starting Lineup

Formation and Tactical Approach

Ancelotti is likely to opt for his favored 4-3-3 formation, which balances defensive solidity with attacking prowess. This formation has been effective for Real Madrid, allowing them to dominate possession and apply pressure on the opposition. The inclusion of new signings and the absence of Kroos will necessitate some adjustments in midfield and attack.

Goalkeeper

Thibaut Courtois is expected to start as the goalkeeper. Courtois has been a consistent performer for Real Madrid, providing reliability between the posts and contributing to the team’s defensive stability.

Defenders

• Right-Back: Dani Carvajal – Carvajal’s experience and defensive capabilities make him a key figure on the right flank. His ability to support the attack while maintaining defensive responsibilities will be crucial.
• Center-Backs: Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger – With Alaba unavailable, Militão and Rüdiger will likely form the central defensive partnership. Both players bring physicality, aerial ability, and composure to the backline.
• Left-Back: Marcelo – Although Marcelo is getting older, his attacking prowess and experience make him a viable option for the left-back position. His ability to deliver precise crosses and link up with the midfield will be valuable.

Midfielders

• Central Midfielder: Luka Modrić – As one of the remaining experienced midfielders, Modrić will play a pivotal role in dictating the tempo and providing creative passes.
• Central Midfielder: Jude Bellingham – Bellingham’s inclusion in the midfield will help fill the gap left by Kroos. His dynamic playing style, combined with his box-to-box capabilities, will add energy and versatility.
• Central Midfielder: Eduardo Camavinga – Camavinga’s presence will add defensive stability and allow Modrić and Bellingham to push forward. His ability to recover the ball and contribute to the transition phase will be essential.

Forwards

• Right Wing: Vinícius Júnior – Vinícius will continue to be a key attacking threat on the right wing. His pace, dribbling skills, and ability to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities will be crucial.
• Striker: Kylian Mbappé – Expected to make his debut, Mbappé’s inclusion as the central striker will provide Real Madrid with a world-class finishing ability and pace. His link-up play with other forwards will be closely watched.
• Left Wing: Rodrygo Goes – Rodrygo’s creativity and goal-scoring potential on the left wing will complement Mbappé’s presence. His ability to beat defenders and deliver quality crosses will be a key factor in the attacking play.

Tactical Considerations

Offensive Strategy

Real Madrid’s attacking strategy will likely involve a high pressing game combined with quick transitions. The pace and skill of Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior will be leveraged to exploit Atalanta’s defensive weaknesses. Ancelotti may also employ overlapping runs from the full-backs to stretch the opposition and create space for the forwards.

Defensive Approach

Defensively, Real Madrid will need to remain vigilant against Atalanta’s counter-attacks and set-piece threats. Militão and Rüdiger will be tasked with neutralizing Atalanta’s key attacking players, while Carvajal and Marcelo will provide support and ensure that the defensive line remains organized.

Midfield Battle

The midfield battle will be crucial, with Modrić, Bellingham, and Camavinga facing off against Atalanta’s midfielders. Controlling the midfield will allow Real Madrid to dictate the pace of the game and maintain possession. Bellingham’s ability to drive forward and create chances will be particularly important.

Conclusion

As Real Madrid prepares to face Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup, the predicted starting lineup reflects a blend of experience and new talent. With the potential debut of Kylian Mbappé and the absence of Toni Kroos, Ancelotti’s tactical approach will be closely scrutinized. Real Madrid’s pursuit of a record sixth UEFA Super Cup title and Atalanta’s quest for their first-ever trophy promise an exciting and highly competitive match.

By leveraging their strong squad and tactical flexibility, Real Madrid aims to secure victory in Warsaw and set the tone for a successful season ahead.