Copa Del Rey: Real Madrid's Projected Lineup Vs Leganes

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Post on Feb 07, 2025

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Copa del Rey: Real Madrid's Projected Lineup vs Leganes

The Copa del Rey represents a crucial opportunity for Real Madrid to secure silverware and build momentum. Their upcoming match against Leganes, a lower-division opponent, presents a chance to rotate the squad, rest key players, and give valuable game time to those who haven't featured prominently this season. But even against seemingly weaker opposition, Carlo Ancelotti will field a team capable of securing victory and advancing in the competition. Let's delve into a projected lineup, considering potential formations, player form, and strategic considerations.

Analyzing Real Madrid's Current Situation

Before predicting the lineup, we need to assess Real Madrid's current state. Injuries, suspensions, and player form significantly influence Ancelotti's team selection. Key players needing rest, such as Karim Benzema and Luka Modrić, are likely candidates for rotation. Meanwhile, fringe players will be eager to prove their worth and fight for more minutes. The overall fitness level of the squad and the intensity of recent matches will also play a part in the manager's decision-making process.

Key Players Likely to Rest

Karim Benzema: The Ballon d'Or winner is crucial to Real Madrid's attack, but his age and workload this season necessitate careful management. A Copa del Rey match against Leganes is an ideal opportunity to give him a breather and prevent potential injury.

Luka Modrić: The veteran midfielder has been instrumental for Real Madrid, but his consistent performances demand rest to maintain peak condition for crucial La Liga and Champions League games. Rotation against Leganes is highly probable.

Toni Kroos: Similar to Modrić, Kroos's consistent playing time necessitates rest. His experience and ability are essential, but managing his minutes wisely is critical for long-term success.

Projected Starting XI and Formation

Ancelotti could opt for several formations, but a 4-3-3 seems the most likely choice given the need for balance and the opportunity to experiment. Here’s a projected starting eleven:

Goalkeeper:

• Andriy Lunin: With Thibaut Courtois likely to be rested, Lunin will get a chance to showcase his abilities and solidify his position as the backup goalkeeper.

Defense:

• Dani Carvajal: A reliable right-back who can provide defensive stability and offer support in attack.
• Éder Militão: A strong central defender capable of dealing with aerial threats and initiating attacks.
• Nacho Fernández: A versatile defender capable of playing across the backline. His experience will be crucial.
• Ferland Mendy: The left-back position, while Mendy might be rotated with Fran Garcia for game time distribution.

Midfield:

• Aurelien Tchouaméni: A key midfielder known for his defensive capabilities and ball distribution.
• Eduardo Camavinga: A dynamic midfielder who provides energy, creativity, and support in both defense and attack.
• Federico Valverde: A versatile midfielder who can contribute defensively and offensively.

Attack:

• Rodrygo Goes: A dynamic winger with pace, skill, and goalscoring ability.
• Mariano Díaz: A striker looking to prove himself and seize chances given more playing time.
• Marco Asensio: The winger can showcase his skills and fight for a starting position in more important matches.

Potential Substitutions and Tactical Flexibility

Ancelotti is known for his tactical flexibility. The manager might introduce fresh legs during the second half, depending on the game's flow. Potential substitutes could include:

• Fran Garcia: To offer fresh legs at left-back.
• Dani Ceballos: To provide creativity and control in midfield.
• Brahim Díaz: To add attacking impetus from the wing or as a false nine.
• Vinicius Junior (limited minutes): While a regular starter, Ancelotti may choose to give him limited playing time to manage his workload.

Leganes' Approach and Real Madrid's Counter-Strategy

Leganes will undoubtedly adopt a defensive approach, focusing on compactness and counter-attacks. Real Madrid's strategy must account for this:

• Patient Build-up: Real Madrid needs to maintain possession, patiently breaking down Leganes' defense with intricate passing and movement.
• Wide Play: Utilizing the pace and skill of Rodrygo and Asensio on the flanks will stretch Leganes’ defense, creating space in central areas.
• Set-Pieces: Real Madrid’s height advantage might be exploited from set-pieces. Precise delivery and strong headers could be crucial.
• Counter-Press: Winning the ball back quickly after losing possession will limit Leganes’ counter-attacking opportunities.

Conclusion: A Chance for Rotation and Opportunity

The Copa del Rey match against Leganes provides a valuable opportunity for Real Madrid. It's a chance to give vital rest to key players, experiment with different formations and lineups, and allow fringe players to showcase their talent and compete for a place in the team. While victory is paramount, the strategic objectives extend beyond just winning. Managing squad fitness, assessing player form, and building team cohesion are equally important aspects of this crucial competition. With a carefully selected and well-motivated team, Real Madrid should confidently advance to the next round of the Copa del Rey.