The choice of the Madrid striker was debated. Between the flamboyant youth and the return of the champion, Xabi Alonso finally decided.
As the long -awaited quarter -final approaches to Borussia Dortmund (10 p.m.), a doubt persisted: who of Mbappé or Gonzalo Garcia begins at the forefront of the Real Madrid attack? Between the momentum of the prodigy and the boss's return, the Madrid coach's decision was closely scrutinized.
Mbappé regains its place in the eleven
Kylian Mbappé will finally start this meeting at the forefront of the Merengue attack. Returning in shape after a virus that had removed him from the field throughout the group phase, the Frenchman convinced Xabi Alonso of his ability to carry out the Madrid attack. A strong choice, so much Gonzalo Garcia had shone in his absence,
Chaining performances and goals with impressive regularity. It will start on the bench.
Faced with the Germans, Real will evolve in an unprecedented 3-5-2 diagram. In defense, Aurélien Tchouaméni continues his interim alongside Antonio Rüdiger and the young recruit Dean Huijsen. On the wings, Alexander-Arnold and Arda Güler will evolve as pistons in hybrid roles. The heart of the game will be occupied by Jude Bellingham, Fede Valverde and Luka Modric, whose tempo science remains essential in major meetings.
Gonzalo Garcia will start on the Real bench.
A high pressure attack
In front, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior are responsible for making the difference. The duo will have to find the right alchemy this time. Xabi Alonso has bet on experience and speed. But in the event of an offensive breakdown, Gonzalo Garcia could get out of the bench again to play the heroes. The “New Raúl” has never disappointed so far.
This shock against Dortmund, collectively formidable and carried by a Julian Brandt in great shape, represents a real test for Real. Xabi Alonso knows he plays big on this composition. His decision to rule out Garcia from the starting eleven could weigh heavy. But for the moment, this is the time for big names and assumed responsibilities.
The eleven of Real against Dortmund: Curtois Shift, Tchouomeni, Huises; Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham, Valverde, Guler, Modric ; Mbapped, Vinicus
