Fear of Rashford: Xabi Alonso to bench Trent and Carvajal in El Clasico – reports

Real Madrid are weighing a bold defensive tweak for El Clasico, with head coach Xabi Alonso ready to leave both Trent Alexander Arnold and Dani Carvajal out of the starting lineup, according to Diario AS.

The calculation is simple and ruthless. Barcelona’s Marcus Rashford is flying, and Madrid do not want to hand him the space he thrives on down their right flank.

Rashford has five goals this season for Barcelona and as many assists. The numbers are not cosmetic. He is stretching back lines, attacking the far post, and punishing transitions.

Madrid’s response, per the report, is a functional one. Federico Valverde is expected to start at right back to add pace, range, and defensive legs in wide areas.

That would leave one of the specialist full backs to come on later. The idea is to manage risk early, then release experience from the bench if the game state allows.

Both Alexander Arnold and Carvajal are understood to be fully fit after recent issues. Availability is not the problem. Match dynamics are.

This is also about psychology. Madrid have lost the last four competitive El Clasicos and cannot afford a slow start that feeds Barcelona’s press and crowd energy.

Valverde’s selection would tilt the midfield balance too. His repositioning opens a slot inside for another runner, keeping Madrid aggressive without getting exposed.

Squad news around the camp is broadly positive. Dean Huijsen and Dani Ceballos are also set to be available, adding cover across the back line and midfield.

If Alonso sticks with the plan, the message is clear. Neutralize Rashford first, then layer on quality later rather than gambling from minute one.

It is a pragmatic call and, given recent Clasico scars, a necessary one. Contain the threat, control the tempo, and turn the match into a game Madrid can win in the final third.

Source: AS