Real Madrid return to La Liga action on Sunday evening as they face Getafe in the penultimate game of Matchday 9. After Barcelona’s late victory over Girona, the pressure is on Los Blancos, who now trail their arch-rivals by just one point. A win at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez would see them reclaim top spot ahead of next weekend’s El Clasico showdown.
Injury Concerns for Xabi Alonso
Head coach Xabi Alonso faces several selection headaches going into this fixture, particularly in defense. Star defender Antonio Rüdiger remains sidelined with injury, while Dean Huijsen is also out and could miss the upcoming Champions League clash with Juventus.
That means David Alaba returns to the starting XI alongside Éder Militão at centre-back, while Álvaro Carreras continues to deputize at left-back. Thibaut Courtois starts in goal, providing stability between the posts after his return from a long-term injury earlier this season.
Bellingham Returns, Midfield Reshuffle
Alonso has chosen a rearranged midfield lineup, with Fede Valverde dropping deeper to cover defensive responsibilities. Jude Bellingham starts once again as he works his way back to full fitness following off-season shoulder surgery.
Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni form the engine room in midfield, offering both creativity and defensive balance.
Mbappe and Mastantuono Passed Fit
There had been doubts over the fitness of Kylian Mbappé and Franco Mastantuono, who both sustained minor knocks during international duty. However, the pair have been passed fit and feature in the starting lineup.
Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé will lead the line, with Mastantuono providing flair and energy in the closing third.
Real Madrid Starting XI vs Getafe
1️⃣ Thibaut Courtois (GK)
2️⃣ Fede Valverde
3️⃣ Éder Militão
4️⃣ David Alaba
5️⃣ Álvaro Carreras
6️⃣ Aurélien Tchouaméni
7️⃣ Eduardo Camavinga
8️⃣ Jude Bellingham
9️⃣ Franco Mastantuono
🔟 Kylian Mbappé
1️⃣1️⃣ Vinícius Jr.
Getafe’s Struggles Continue
Getafe enter this game in poor form, winless in their last four league outings. Facing an in-form Real Madrid side eager to bounce back to the top of the table presents a daunting challenge for José Bordalás’ men, who will rely heavily on home advantage to frustrate the Spanish giants.
Focus Turns to El Clasico
With El Clasico looming next weekend, Alonso will be keen to see his side not only secure the three points but also come through the match unscathed. Before playing Barcelona in a match that could decide the championship, a solid showing against Getafe would be ideal preparation.
