Rüdiger and Trent return to Real Madrid squad for Valencia clash
Los Blancos welcome back key defenders as Ancelotti names strong squad for Sunday's match against Valencia, though Vinicius misses out on traditionally difficult fixture.
Real Madrid have received a timely boost with Antonio Rüdiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to the squad ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash with Valencia at the Bernabéu.
Squad breakdown
Carlo Ancelotti has named a strong squad with Kylian Mbappé leading the line, while the return of Rüdiger strengthens a defensive unit that’s been under pressure in recent fixtures.
Between the sticks, there are no surprises with Thibaut Courtois and Andriy Lunin both included, alongside academy keeper Sergio Mestre providing additional cover.
The defensive department looks particularly well-stocked with:
- Dani Carvajal
- David Alaba
- Antonio Rüdiger
- Trent Alexander-Arnold
- Asencio
- Álvaro Carreras
- Fran García
- Dean Huijsen
- Diego Jiménez
Midfield options
In the engine room, Ancelotti has assembled a balanced selection combining defensive stability and creative flair. The French connection of Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni provides the steel alongside Fede Valverde, while Arda Güler and Dani Ceballos offer more attacking alternatives. Young talent Cestero rounds out the midfield options.
Forward line
All eyes will be on Mbappé up front as the Frenchman continues to find his feet in Madrid. He’ll be supported by an eclectic mix of attacking talent including Gonzalo, Brahim Díaz and the promising youngster Mastantuono.
Notable absence
Interestingly, Vinicius Jr. doesn’t make the squad for what has historically been a difficult fixture for the Brazilian. The Valencia crowd has previously given him the right hump, so perhaps his absence is a tactical decision by Ancelotti to avoid unnecessary tension.
With this strong squad at his disposal, Ancelotti will be expecting nothing less than three points as Los Blancos look to maintain their position at the top of the table.