Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to start four midfielders against Atletico Madrid on Sunday with the absence of superstar striker Kylian Mbappe, according to a report from Relevo. Luka Modric is the favourite to play as the fourth midfielder.
Mbappe got injured during Real Madrid’s match against Alaves, and is out for three weeks. Ancelotti had two choices: Stick with a 4-3-3 and start Endrick instead of Mbappe, or go for a diamond. It seems like he has made the right choice because it gives Real Madrid a bit more control. Ancelotti has been putting out the 4-4-2 lineup in training as well, and according to the report, he thinks it is the best way to cover the flanks and go against Atletico’s midfield at the same time.
Modric will also help Real Madrid in building out from the back, especially if Atletico are aggressive in their press as they can be in some exchanges. Eduardo Camavinga is expected to be in the squad but it is unlikely that he starts in the derby.
