Madrid’s Comeback Call: Carvajal Returns as Real Betis Visit in La Liga
4 January 2026
Return and Injury Woes Ahead of Betis
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has announced the squad for the La Liga Round 18 encounter with Real Betis on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Dani Carvajal returns from injury, but reports suggest he will start on the bench, with Fede Valverde deployed at right-back to cover the position.
Five players are unavailable for the match: Eder Militao, Din Husen, Alexander-Arnold, Kylian Mbappé due to injuries, and Ibrahim Diaz who is with Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations. The list confirms Madrid’s continued battle with squad depth as they chase top spot in the league.
In the full squad today, goalkeepers are Courtois, Lunin, and Sergio Mistari. The defensive line features Carvajal, Alaba, Fran Garcia, Rudiger, Mendy, and David Jimenez, with a mix of experience and versatility across the back four.
Midfield duties are expected to be handled by Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Chouaméni, Arda Güler, Ceballos, and Thiago, providing a blend of creativity, energy, and control. Up front, the attacking quartet includes Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Gonzalo García, and Mastantuno, all aimed at piercing Betis’ defense. Real Madrid sit second in La Liga with 42 points, trailing Barcelona’s 49, but Madrid hold a game in hand.
Today’s lineup is set against a Betis side eager to test Madrid’s resilience and remind everyone why the league title race is far from settled. The stage is set for a tactical chess match between Alonso and Betis’ coach as both sides aim to maximize their chances in a tight paddock of the season.
Image credit: Getty Images
Punchline time: If Madrid’s defense were a sniper, it would be 404: Not a solid wall. Punchline two: Alonso’s plan is simple—pass, move, and pretend it’s practice. The crowd loves drama, but tonight we want a little less drama and a lot more goals.
