Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Union Berlin - Champions League
- 14-time Champions League winners begin their campaign in Group C
- Union Berlin are making debut in the competition
- Carlo Ancelotti could make midfield changes for Wednesday's game
Real Madrid are yet to play with the imperious swagger of their apex at the start of 2023/24, yet Carlo Ancelotti's side have enjoyed a perfect opening to the campaign.
Los Blancos maintained their 100% record in La Liga on Sunday night as they once again came from behind to win at the Bernabeu; beating Real Sociedad 2-1.
Now, their attention shifts to the competition with which Madrid have the deepest of relationships. The 14-time Champions League winners open their account in Group C on Wednesday evening against continental novices Union Berlin.
It's bound to be a special occasion for Urs Fischer's side on their UCL bow, and here's the Madrid side they could be up against.
Real Madrid predicted lineup vs Union Berlin (4-3-1-2)
GK: Kepa Arrizabalaga - Thibaut Courtois was ever so important to Madrid's recent Champions League success and Kepa will need to step up under the bright lights in the Belgian's absence.
RB: Dani Carvajal - The wily veteran is a shoo-in to continue at right-back with Ancelotti boasting very few alternatives.
CB: Antonio Rudiger - Nacho's struggles in pre-season would've deterred Ancelotti regarding the captain's deployment. Rudiger continues at centre-back.
CB: David Alaba - The left-footed defender is crucial to Madrid's build-up and there's no doubt he'll keep his place in the team.
LB: Fran Garcia - There are holes in Garcia's game, but he's a live wire going forward and his impressive crossing ability paid dividends on Sunday as he set up both of Madrid's goals. Ferland Mendy might be back, but Garcia deserves to keep his place.
DM: Eduardo Camavinga - It's been a quiet start to the new season for Camavinga, but he's played his best football at the club in this competition and he could replace compatriot Aurelien Tchouameni in the starting XI.
CM: Federico Valverde - The lung-busting Uruguayan continues to impress in this physically demanding box-to-box role and has quickly become a crucial player for Ancelotti.
CM: Luka Modric - Toni Kroos got through a full 90 on Sunday and the boss could rotate his veterans in midfield with Modric coming in.
AM: Jude Bellingham - Madrid's newest Galactico failed to contribute in the final third against Sociedad which means he must be saving himself for the opening matchday of their Champions League campaign.
ST: Rodrygo - Vinicius Jr's absence means Madrid's forward options are limited, with Rodrygo a shoo-in to keep his place up top. The Brazilian has made a bright start to the season without being very productive.
ST: Joselu - The loanee spurned a few chances before eventually grabbing the winner on the hour with a pinpoint header. The Spanish international is set to make his Champions League debut at the age of 33.
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