Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025
Competition: LaLiga, Matchday
Venue: Estadio de Vallecas, Madrid
Context
Real Madrid head to Vallecas looking for a swift response after their midweek setback at Anfield. Despite the European blip, Los Blancos remain top of LaLiga and face an awkward Rayo side that’s been stubborn at home this season. Team news this week has centered on defensive absences and how Xabi Alonso reshuffles his midfield without Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Team news snapshot
- Out: Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, Aurélien Tchouaméni; Franco Mastantuono also not ready.
- Back in training/squad: David Alaba rejoined group work and could return to the list, though Madrid may manage his minutes.
- Recent signings settling: Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen are available options in defense; Álvaro Carreras has impressed at left-back.
Predicted XI (4-3-3)
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Militão, Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras; Camavinga (6), Valverde, Bellingham; Brahim Díaz, Mbappé, Vinícius Jr.
Bench options: Lunin, Alaba, Fran García, Mendy, Modrić, Kroos, Rodrygo, Joselu, Arda Güler.
Why this XI?
- Right-back: Alexander-Arnold is now deemed ready to start after a managed return from injury. His delivery and switches of play are valuable against Rayo’s compact block.
- Centre-backs: With Rüdiger out and Alaba just back, Militao-Huijsen offers pace and aerial security.
- Left-back: Carreras’ form and athleticism make him the safer starting profile for an away match.
- Midfield: Camavinga anchors in Tchouaméni’s absence; Valverde returns inside to turbo-charge transitions; Bellingham stays as the high 8/10.
- Front line: Vinícius–Mbappé is non-negotiable; Brahim’s guile between the lines balances the right flank, with Rodrygo an impact option. (Form trend + usage patterns.)
Tactical notes
- Build-up: Expect a 3-2 base when Alexander-Arnold inverts, giving Madrid extra progression through Camavinga and Valverde, while Bellingham occupies the right half-space.
- Press & traps: Madrid will try to lock Rayo on their left, then spring Vinícius early into space behind the full-back.
- Set-pieces: Huijsen’s size adds a new target on corners and wide free-kicks, vital away from home.
Key matchups to watch
- Vinícius Jr. vs Rayo’s right-back: 1v1s and underlaps from Carreras to overload.
- Mbappé vs Rayo’s centre-backs: Runs across the line to attack the near-post channel.
- Bellingham’s timing vs Rayo’s pivots: Arrivals into Zone 14 to combine with Brahim.
Recent form & H2H bite
Madrid edged the last Vallecas meeting 2–1, but results have been mixed across recent clashes—another reminder that Vallecas is rarely straightforward.
Where to watch (selected markets)
Broadcast details vary by region; check local listings. (Guide examples provided in today’s previews.)
Likely alternatives
- Rodrygo for Brahim if Alonso wants more direct running.
- Alaba for Huijsen if the staff prioritise experience from the start.
Bottom line: A 4-3-3 with Trent back at right-back, Valverde inside, and Camavinga at the base feels like Madrid’s most balanced response post-Anfield—enough control to mute Rayo’s intensity and the front three to decide it.