Real Madrid will look to bounce back in La Liga when they face Las Palmas at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday afternoon. Carlo Ancelotti’s side is coming off a tense midweek Copa del Rey victory over Celta Vigo, where they needed extra time to advance to the quarter-finals. Following a tough Supercopa de Espana final loss to Barcelona, Los Blancos will aim for a smoother outing to maintain their title defense and keep pace with Atletico Madrid at the top of the table.
However, injuries and suspensions continue to plague the squad, forcing Ancelotti into some difficult lineup decisions. Here’s how Real Madrid could line up against Las Palmas.
Real Madrid Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
- Thibaut Courtois
Rested midweek, Courtois is set to return between the sticks. Despite the recent defensive struggles, the Belgian remains a reliable figure for Madrid, especially against a Las Palmas side that has shown some attacking prowess this season.
Defense
- Right-Back: Lucas Vazquez
With Madrid’s ongoing search for a new right-back, Vazquez is expected to continue in this position. He’ll need to improve after being exposed in recent high-profile matches. - Center-Back: Raul Asencio
The 21-year-old has stepped up admirably amid Madrid’s defensive injury crisis and will likely partner Rudiger again. - Center-Back: Antonio Rudiger
A consistent presence in Madrid’s backline, Rudiger will anchor the defense as they await David Alaba’s full recovery. - Left-Back: Ferland Mendy
With Fran Garcia nursing an injury, Mendy is set to start and provide stability on the left flank, a position he’s reclaimed in recent weeks.
Midfield
- Defensive Midfield: Federico Valverde
Valverde’s energy and versatility will be crucial in a makeshift midfield. He may push forward to support attacks when needed. - Defensive Midfield: Aurelien Tchouameni
Back in his natural holding role, Tchouameni will aim to silence critics and dictate play from deep, especially with Modric unavailable.
Attack
- Right Wing: Rodrygo
The Brazilian winger has been in decent form and will be eager to add to his tally against a vulnerable Las Palmas defense. - Attacking Midfield: Jude Bellingham
Madrid’s midfield talisman has been in scintillating form, delivering goals and assists consistently. He will be the creative hub on Sunday. - Left Wing: Brahim Diaz
With Vinicius Junior suspended, Brahim Diaz is likely to step in. The Moroccan international will aim to seize the opportunity to impress.
Striker
- Kylian Mbappe
Madrid’s marquee forward has hit a rich vein of form, scoring in his last two outings. Mbappe’s pace and clinical finishing will be key against Las Palmas.
Key Absences
- Vinicius Junior (Suspended)
- Luka Modric (Suspended)
- Eduardo Camavinga (Injured)
- Fran Garcia (Injured)
Match Outlook
Real Madrid will be eager to put on a dominant display after recent struggles. While Las Palmas are unlikely to pose the same threat as Barcelona or Celta Vigo, Madrid cannot afford any complacency. With key players like Vinicius and Modric unavailable, the pressure will be on the likes of Bellingham and Mbappe to deliver.
Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Las Palmas
