Alonso’s Real Madrid XI Unveiled: No Surprises Against Liverpool at Anfield

Match Preview

Real Madrid travel to Liverpool's Anfield for a heavyweight Champions League clash, aiming to secure a fourth consecutive win and reach 12 points in the group stage.

The opposition, Liverpool, led by Dutch coach Arne Slot, arrive with renewed confidence after a recent league victory over Aston Villa, hoping to maintain momentum against a European giant.

Last season's group-stage encounter ended in a Liverpool win (2-0), but this Madrid side now looks more cohesive under Xabi Alonso, who has restored attacking intent and tactical discipline.

Back to the Plan

The Spanish coach has kept to a steady game plan, avoiding major changes and focusing on a compact, efficient display that suits the fixtures at Anfield. The most notable absentee is an Argentine midfielder due to a muscle injury.

Alonso stresses that the approach will be pragmatic and measured, with no unnecessary surprises for a stadium that loves a good duel and a dramatic moment or two.

Predictions aside, the Madrid camp exudes confidence, and the squad believes they can extend their winning run by sticking to the game model that has worked recently.

The match recirculation section below previews the key moment when the two teams meet on the night, with both sides showing intent to control the pace and tempo of the game.

The Real Madrid lineup expected against Liverpool

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois is the undisputed starter, with Andriy Lunin and Fran Gonzalez on the bench as reliable backups.

Defence: Federico Valverde is often used on the right of defense, Álvaro Carreras mans the left, while Éder Militao and an in-form Din Hoissen form the central pairing.

Midfield: Aurélien Tchouaméni sits as a defensive anchor, flanked by Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler in advanced roles, providing flexibility and pressing power.

Midfield/wing: Eduardo Camavinga is expected to operate on the right as a dynamic winger, with the central and left areas covered by others as needed.

Attack: Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior lead the frontline, a duo currently among Europe’s most potent attackers.

Mbappé has been prolific this season (18 goals in 14 matches), while Vinícius has regained his dazzling dribbling and threat, reinforcing Alonso’s trust in both forwards.

Formation: Courtois; Valverde, Militao, Hoissen, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Bellingham, Güler; Camavinga; Mbappé, Vinícius.

Conference and key points

Alonso spoke about the rivalry as one of European football’s classics, highlighting that the focus remains on achieving a good result rather than chasing headlines.

He also touched on the penalty duties, saying Mbappé will be the first taker tomorrow, with decisions made to maximize the team’s chances.

Regarding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s readiness, Alonso indicated he is fit and available, noting his quality and current fine form help the team’s balance.

Alonso reflected on his time at Liverpool and Istanbul 2005, sharing memories that remind him of the club’s relentless spirit and the importance of staying composed under pressure.

He also commented on Florin Zert (Ferlian Verts) and the adaptation required for players arriving from different leagues, stressing patience and time as the key factors for success.

He concluded by stressing that there are plenty of set-piece options and that the players will decide who takes them, underlining the collaborative approach to leadership on the field.

Punchline alert

Punchline 1: Alonso’s tactics are so tight, even the ball files a tax return before crossing the line.

Punchline 2: If Anfield had a loyalty program for tactical masterclasses, Alonso would have lifetime gold—plus a complimentary scarf for the benchwarmer who laughs the hardest at the chalkboard.