Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid, perfect after six La Liga games this season, are set for their toughest challenge yet in the first Madrid derby of the 2025/26 campaign.
On Saturday, September 27, Los Blancos visit the Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano to face city rivals Atletico Madrid in a clash that could shape the early title race.
While Real Madrid have started flawlessly with six wins from six, Diego Simeone’s Atletico sit eighth with two victories, three draws, and one defeat.
The derby kicks off at 16:15 CEST (10:15 am ET), Real Madrid are winless in their last four visits to the Metropolitano across all competitions.
In this article, we present the Real Madrid Predicted Lineup, possible formations, and the Starting XI for the match against Atletico Madrid in La Liga.
Real Madrid Team News: Injuries and Returnees
Xabi Alonso’s squad is largely healthy, with several key players returning to fitness at the right time.
Midfielders Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga have both returned from injury, appearing as substitutes in the recent match against Levante. However, they are likely to be used by Alonso again as impressive substitutes.
Similarly, Brazilian forward Andrić has also returned to the squad after a hamstring injury but is further along in his recovery.
The confirmed absences are mainly in defence. Left-back Ferland Mendy is unavailable and has yet to play under Alonso.
Key defenders Antonio Rudiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold will also be out with muscle injuries.
Real Madrid Expected Lineup vs. Atletico Madrid
Based on recent lineups, team news, and tactical analysis, here is the most likely starting XI for Real Madrid in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is the undisputed starter in goal. In defence, Eder Militao should be seen alongside Dean Huijsen, who returns from suspension, in a central defensive partnership.
With Mendy still out, Alvaro Carreras is expected to start at left-back, while captain Dani Carvajal will hold the right-back position.
Aurelien Chaumany has been an almost constant presence in Xabi Alonso’s starting XI this season, and he will provide a solid foundation for a double pivot with Federico Valverde against Atletico Madrid.
The main selection dilemma for Alonso is in the advanced midfield roles. Arda Güler has been in excellent form and is expected to start centrally.
The right-wing spot will be for promising Franco Mastantuono. Vinicius Junior will start on the left wing.
Kylian Mbappe will lead the line as the team’s primary scorer in attack against Atletico Madrid, having already scored seven league goals.
Tactical Preview and Key Battles
Xabi Alonso is unlikely to take a big risk on player fitness ahead of such a crucial match.
This means Bellingham and Camavinga will likely start on the bench, ready to be deployed as “potent threats to change the game” if necessary.
The selection on the right wing will be significant; Mastantuono provides energy and defensive contributions, while Brahim or Rodrygo can provide more creative movement.
The match against Diego Simeone’s organised team will test Real Madrid’s attacking fluidity.
