Real Madrid will be eager to capitalize on home advantage in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 matchup with city rivals Atletico Madrid.
Los Blancos will, however, be missing at least one important player for the opening leg, and their midfield is unclear.
By moving Federico Valverde to the backline and bringing on Dani Ceballos, Carlo Ancelotti appeared to have found the ideal middle-of-the-park formula.
According to Football Espana, the Italian manager needs to make some midfield decisions with Jude Bellingham suspended for the first leg and Ceballos now injured thereby joining Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao on the sidelines.
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“I don’t think it’s going to change the way we play. I don’t think it’s going to change much. We have to keep in mind that the players who have rested could have the opportunity tomorrow: Asencio, Camavinga…
“We have to look at these kinds of things and nothing more. We’re not going to reinforce the midfield or take off a striker. We have to keep the same idea.”
Real Madrid’s main worry is whether Valverde will be fit. Despite missing their last three games due to a muscle injury, the Uruguayan has been utilized as a right-back in recent weeks.
His participation has come at the same time as their defense has significantly improved. Although he trained on Tuesday night, he is anticipated to star
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