Headline: Real Madrid Seeks Sixth Consecutive Win Against Racing Santander in La Liga
Real Madrid will strive for their sixth consecutive win across all competitions when they face Racing Santander in La Liga on Sunday. The Merengues are enjoying their best form since Jose Mourinho’s return over the summer, having secured critical victories in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
The club achieved a significant milestone last weekend with a thrilling 2-1 victory against league leaders FC Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou. Currently, Real Madrid holds third place in the La Liga standings, trailing Barcelona by three points and Atletico Madrid by four, following Atletico’s win over Levante.
The objective for Real Madrid is clear: to capture all three points and maintain pressure on their rivals above them. However, they will enter this match without their captain, Federico Valverde, who is being rested due to a physical issue sustained during El Clasico. Additionally, Vinicius Jr. remains sidelined while serving a suspension, and other players such as Rodrygo Goes, Raul Asencio, and Ferland Mendy will not travel for this match.
On a positive note, the squad sees the return of key player Thibaut Courtois, who missed the trip to Barcelona due to illness and is set to reclaim his spot as the starting goalkeeper, taking the place of Andriy Lunin, who performed admirably in the Clasico.
Valverde’s absence opens a gap in the lineup, allowing summer signing Denzel Dumfries to start at right-back ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Meanwhile, a possible shift might occur in the heart of defense with veteran Antonio Rudiger likely coming into play, pushing Dean Huijsen out of the squad. Ibrahima Konate is expected to maintain his position as the second centre-back, while Marc Cucurella continues at left-back.
In midfield, Bernardo Silva, having delivered a strong performance against Barcelona, is anticipated to retain his spot alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, who anchors the double pivot for defensive support. Jude Bellingham, a key figure under Mourinho, will occupy the role of attacking midfielder.
With no Vinicius Jr. available, Yan Diomande is set to take his place on the left flank, building on his recent promising displays. Kylian Mbappe, who celebrated his 100th goal for Real Madrid in the Clasico, will lead as the centre-forward. Completing the attacking lineup, Arda Guler has cemented his place on the right wing, while Brahim Diaz, Endrick, and Carlos Espi will be available from the bench.
