Madrid's Make-or-Break Lineup vs City: Mbappe in Doubt, Alonso's Masterplan Unfolds
10 December 2025
Pressure-filled prep for Madrid vs City
Xabi Alonso faces a difficult task assembling Real Madrid's lineup for the Champions League clash with Manchester City, hampered by a string of injuries and absences.
According to AS, Madrid return to European duties under a storm of pressure after a league defeat to Celta Vigo at the Bernabeu.
The team remains in crisis as City arrive on the back of Haaland's stellar form, while Madrid's own dip in form and a lineup of absences, especially in defense, complicate selection.
Injury woes and tactical decisions
AS notes this is one of Europe's classic clashes, one Madrid won last season, but this time the task looks tougher given City's firepower and Madrid's defensive gaps.
Madrid will be missing 6 of 10 defenders in the squad: Hoessin, Alaba, Carvajal, Alexander-Arnold, Militao, and Mendy.
Emergency picks
Alonso must lean on Rudiger and Asensio to form the centre-back pairing, with no ready right-back available, forcing Fede Valverde to play there again while Carvajal is on the left.
In goal, Thibaut Courtois is the undisputed starter.
In midfield, expectations are that Alonso will keep the 4-4-2 that served well against Athletic Bilbao, even if the personnel differ.
With Kamavinga sidelined and Valverde returning to defense, a midfield vacancy will be filled by Dani Ceballos alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, while Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham operate in more advanced roles.
In attack, Vinícius Jr. remains a starter, with the partner's identity to be decided.
AS notes the natural assumption is Mbappé starts, but the French forward suffered a finger fracture and muscular pains.
Madrid have not announced their squad; Mbappé's involvement is uncertain, and if not ready, Goncalo Garcia could take his place.
Predicted Real Madrid lineup vs Manchester City
The expected XI according to the Spanish press:
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois.
Defence: Fede Valverde, Asensio, Rudiger, Carvajal.
Midfield: Arda Güler, Ceballos, Tchouaméni, Bellingham.
Attack: Vinícius Jr. and Gonçalo Garcia or Mbappé.
