Real Madrid team against Sevilla in LaLiga

Kylian Mbappé will look to take control, coming in off the left wing, alternating in certain stretches with Rodrygo, with star Vini out.Life without Vinícius.That’s the reality for Real Madrid after the Brazilian received hisfifth yellow cardduring the match against Rayo Vallecano foroverly aggressive protestsdirected at referee Martínez Munuera. As a result, Vinícius is now on holiday and won’t return to training until December 30, along with the rest of the squad.

However, there’s still one match left before Christmas – an assignment Carlo Ancelotti, with no hard feelings, referred to as “unfortunately.” It’s the last game of 2024,so Ancelotti plans to field his strongest lineupbefore the team gets a well-deserved break the following week.

Brahim to fill the Vini void

Without Vinícius,Brahim Díazis the frontrunner to take his place. The midfielder has made the most of his recent opportunities, showing no shortage of effort and determination. Brahim is expected to complete afront threealongsideKylian Mbappéon the left wing—“his adaptation period is over; I see him more motivated now,” Ancelotti recently stated—andRodrygo, likely starting as the central striker. However, during certain phases of the game,Mbappécould take on the central role, with Rodrygo shifting to the flank, depending on the flow of the match.

Fran García likely to start

The lineup will be close to Real Madrid’s best available XI. DespiteFerland Mendyrejoining group training on Saturday, his lack of match fitness makesFran Garcíathe favorite for the left-back position.

In defense,Aurélien Tchouaméniwill continue alongsideAntonio Rüdiger, while the midfield trio ofEduardo Camavinga,Fede Valverde, andJude Bellinghambrings a mix of energy, hard work, and creativity.

Probable starting XI vs Sevilla

Ancelotti’s focus will be on securing a strong finish to the year before regrouping for the second half of the season.