Real Madrid face Málaga: probable lineup revealed

Real Madrid return to Chamartín this Sunday to face Málaga in a clash that concludes the first intense match cycle of the season. After two identical starting lineups in the first two LaLiga fixtures, José Mourinho has announced changes to his starting XI. “I’m satisfied with the calm the team shows in tight situations. That will help us progress,” the Portuguese coach stated after the match against Real Sociedad. It is now official: Marc Cucurella will make his first start for the Madrid side.

A Real Madrid in search of rhythm

Real Madrid’s first two outings under Mourinho have left a mixed impression. While the team has managed to control matches and impose its style, it still struggles to regain its usual fluidity. The Portuguese tactician is banking on consistency to build a solid side, despite the rotations imposed by a packed schedule. With three matches in six days, including the one against Málaga, Real Madrid is entering a brief respite before a trip to Betis, an exceptional pace for the season. Málaga, last visitors to Chamartín in 2017 Promoted from Segunda División, Málaga arrives at Chamartín with a mixed record: a 2-0 defeat at the Metropolitano against Atlético and a 1-1 draw at La Rosaleda against Deportivo. The Andalusians will look to resist against a Real Madrid in search of confidence. Their last away trip to Chamartín dates back to November 25, 2017, a match that ended in a draw before Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winning goal for Madrid. In terms of lineups, Real Madrid is expected to field: Courtois; Trent, Konaté, Rüdiger, Cucurella; Valverde, Bernardo Silva; Vinícius, Bellingham, Güler; Mbappé. Málaga, for their part, would line up as follows: Herrero; Puga, Recio, Galilea, Salinas; Izan, Dotor; Dani Lorenzo, Larrubia, Rafita; Chupe.

A high-tension match

This clash looks set to be another test for Real Madrid, which aims to confirm its status as title favorites. Despite its difficulties, Málaga could play the role of spoiler. With Mbappé leading the attack, the Madrid side will need to show discipline to build on a promising but still improvable start to the season. Fans are expecting a response after the first two matchdays, where Real Madrid showed encouraging signs but also areas that need improvement.