Carlo Ancelotti has announced Real Madrid’s starting lineup for their Copa del Rey Round of 32 clash against Deportivo Minera. The match sees a blend of experience and youth, with two academy players, Lorenzo Aguado and Diego Aguado, featuring in the starting XI. Brazilian sensation Endrick also gets a spot in the starting lineup.
Starting XI for Real Madrid
- Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin
- Defense: Lorenzo Aguado, Raul Asensio, Diego Aguado, Fran Garcia
- Midfield: Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, Luka Modric
- Attack: Brahim Diaz, Endrick, Arda Güler
Bench Options
Ancelotti has named a strong bench, including several first-team regulars and academy talents:
- Fran Gonzalez
- Sergio Mestre
- Jude Bellingham
- Vinicius Junior
- Kylian Mbappé
- Rodrygo
- Aurélien Tchouaméni
- Lucas Vázquez
- Dani Ceballos
- Ferland Mendy
- Gonzalo Garcia
- Andres Chema
Key Highlights
- Youth Integration:
Lorenzo Aguado (right-back) and Diego Aguado (center-back) have been called up from the academy and start in the defensive line. Their inclusion showcases Real Madrid’s commitment to nurturing young talent. - Endrick’s Start:
The 17-year-old Brazilian prodigy, who joined Real Madrid amidst much fanfare, gets a chance to prove himself in the starting XI. Fans will be eager to see his impact in this crucial knockout fixture. - Veteran Presence:
Luka Modric and Federico Valverde provide stability in midfield, while Eduardo Camavinga adds dynamism and versatility. - Attacking Flair:
Arda Güler and Brahim Diaz flank Endrick in the attack, offering creativity and pace. This youthful trio will aim to exploit Deportivo Minera’s defense.
Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Journey
Real Madrid enters the competition with high expectations after being eliminated in the Round of 16 last season by Atletico Madrid. Ancelotti’s side will look to avoid a similar fate this year and add the Copa del Rey to their trophy cabinet.
Opposition: Deportivo Minera
While Real Madrid is the overwhelming favorite, Deportivo Minera will aim to capitalize on their underdog status and make life difficult for the La Liga giants. Playing at home, they’ll hope to use the occasion to their advantage.
What to Watch For
- Endrick’s Performance: Can the young forward live up to the hype in his first major start?
- Academy Stars: How will Lorenzo Aguado and Diego Aguado handle the pressure of representing Real Madrid in a knockout game?
- Squad Depth: With stars like Vinicius Junior, Mbappé, and Bellingham on the bench, Real Madrid has plenty of firepower to call upon if needed.
Last Season’s Disappointment
Real Madrid will be keen to erase the memory of their early exit from the Copa del Rey last season. The team’s determination to progress further this year is evident in Ancelotti’s mix of youth and experience.
This match serves as an opportunity for Real Madrid’s young talents to shine while keeping the team’s hopes alive in one of Spain’s most prestigious competitions.
