Real – Valencia: the line-up leaked before the match, Ancelotti surprises with his choices

Real Madrid return to La Liga action this Saturday at the Santiago Bernabéu, hosting Valencia in what could be a pivotal match in the race for the Spanish title. The fixture, part of Matchday 30, kicks off at 4:15 p.m. local time and carries huge implications for Carlo Ancelotti’s men, who trail FC Barcelona by just three points.

With a decisive month of April ahead, including a highly anticipated Copa del Rey final Clasico and a Champions League semi-final showdown with Arsenal, Ancelotti has opted for a surprising and strategic starting eleven against a resurgent Valencia side. The Italian tactician is clearly attempting to balance ambition with caution, protecting key players while still fielding a strong enough side to secure the all-important three points.

One of the biggest talking points is in goal. With Thibaut Courtois still sidelined due to complications after the international break, all signs initially pointed to Ukrainian Andriy Lunin stepping in again. However, Lunin has reportedly been dealing with muscular discomfort since the Copa del Rey semi-final clash with Real Sociedad, casting doubt over his availability. Although there was speculation that young Fran González might get a shock start, Ancelotti has decided to keep his faith in Lunin for this crucial encounter—despite his physical concerns.

In defense, Ancelotti has shuffled the deck entirely. Lucas Vázquez has been slotted in at right-back, while Raúl Asencio partners Antonio Rüdiger in central defense. This pairing is untested at this level, making it a gamble by the Real Madrid boss. On the left, Fran García returns to the starting line-up, benefitting from Ferland Mendy’s ongoing struggles with form and fitness.

The midfield also bears signs of rotation and strategic planning. Luka Modrić, who had been used sparingly in recent league matches, makes his return to the starting eleven. The Croatian veteran will line up alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde. It’s a seasoned trio capable of controlling the tempo, but one notably missing Jude Bellingham. The English star is reportedly still dealing with minor physical issues, and with the Arsenal clash on the horizon, Ancelotti has elected to rest him completely.

Up front, however, there are no half-measures. Ancelotti has unleashed his strongest attacking trident: Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Kylian Mbappé. With 5 goals in his last three La Liga matches, Mbappé is currently on fire and will be hoping to maintain his form against a Valencia defense that has remained unbeaten in their last four outings.

Vinicius Jr, fresh from his relentless displays on the wings, will look to torment Valencia’s full-backs, while Rodrygo’s creativity and movement could be vital in breaking down what is expected to be a compact Valencia side. Together, the trio combines pace, flair, and finishing ability—an explosive cocktail for any opponent.

Despite their place in 15th on the table, Valencia cannot be underestimated. The visitors arrive in Madrid boasting a strong recent run, powered by the goal-scoring form of Hugo Duro and Diego López, each of whom has scored seven goals this season. With Real Madrid’s makeshift backline, José Bordalás’ side will likely look to exploit any defensive lapses.

For Ancelotti, today’s match is a test of both tactical intelligence and squad depth. Managing minutes for players like Bellingham, managing injuries, and still staying in the title race is no small task. The Italian knows any misstep at this point in the season could cost his side dearly.

Real Madrid’s starting XI vs Valencia:
Lunin – Lucas Vázquez, Asencio, Rüdiger, Fran García – Tchouaméni, Modrić, Valverde – Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Mbappé

While the line-up features multiple surprises, it also shows the depth of Real Madrid’s squad. Players like Brahim Díaz and Dani Ceballos are on the bench, ready to make an impact should the need arise in the second half. The presence of experience and youth together in the squad is a reflection of Ancelotti’s evolution as a manager—never afraid to innovate while respecting the club’s legacy.

This is not just another La Liga match. With only eight league games remaining after this one, every point counts. For Real Madrid, this is about survival, momentum, and sending a message to their rivals that they are still firmly in the hunt for silverware on all fronts.

As for the fans, they’ll be watching with a mix of anticipation and nervous excitement. The risk of fielding an unconventional defense and resting key figures ahead of the Arsenal tie could either prove to be a masterstroke—or backfire spectacularly.

Only the final whistle will tell if Ancelotti’s calculated risk pays off. But one thing is certain: Real Madrid aren’t going down without a fight.