Real Madrid lineup – what the squad looks like today

If you’re wondering who’s starting for Los Blancos this week, you’ve come to the right spot. We break down the latest eleven, flag the biggest injuries and show how new signings could shake things up. No fluff, just the facts you need to chat with friends or win a betting pool.

Current starting XI

The most common starter list this season reads like this:

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois – still the first‑choice shot‑stopper, thanks to his reflexes and calm under pressure.
• Right back: Dani Carvajal – his pace and experience keep the flank safe, and he still chips in with an occasional assist.
• Center backs: Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger – Militão offers speed, while Rüdiger adds physicality and aerial power.
• Left back: Ferland Mendy – when fit, he combines solid defending with good crossing ability.
• Midfield pivot: Toni Kroos – the metronome who dictates tempo, plus Luka Modrić when the coach wants a more creative spark.
• Center midfield: Jude Bellingham – the young English star who covers ground, scores and links play.
• Right wing: Vinícius Júnior – explosive dribbling and a growing goal threat make him a constant danger.
• Left wing: Rodrygo – brings speed and a knack for slipping into the box.
• Striker: Karim Benzema – even after his 2023 departure rumor, he remains the focal point for finishing chances.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti also rotates in players like Marco Asensio, Federico Valverde or Álvaro Odriozola when the schedule gets tight. Keep an eye on matchday sheets because he likes to rest his stars before big European games.

How injuries and transfers shape the lineup

Injuries have already forced a few changes. Mendy missed the last two league matches with a hamstring issue, letting Lucas Vázquez fill in at left back. If the problem lingers, a youngster from Castilla could get his chance. On the midfield side, Modrić’s knee niggles mean Kroos often starts solo, which can leave the team a bit thin against high‑press opponents.

Recent transfers also play a big role. The club splashed cash on a promising striker from the Bundesliga (name withheld for now) who is expected to compete with Benzema for minutes. If he adapts quickly, Ancelotti might switch to a two‑striker system, giving Benzema room to drop deeper and link play.

Another hot topic is the possible loan return of a former Real Madrid academy talent. Should the youngster prove his worth, he could challenge for a wing spot, especially if Vinícius needs rest after international duty.

What does this mean for you, the fan? Stay flexible – the starting eleven can vary based on opponent, fatigue and tactical tweaks. When Real Madrid faces a defensive powerhouse like Atlético Madrid, expect a more balanced midfield with both Kroos and Modrić. Against a quick‑attacking side, Ancelotti may push Vinícius higher up the pitch and add an extra winger.

To sum up, the core of the Real Madrid lineup stays solid: Courtois, Carvajal, Militão, Rüdiger, Mendy (when fit), Kroos, Bellingham, Vinícius and Benzema. Around them, the squad depth gives Ancelotti the freedom to rotate, cover injuries and experiment with formations. Keep checking for the latest injury reports and transfer news – they’re the only things that can truly shake up the lineup.

Whether you’re watching LaLiga, the Champions League, or a friendly, knowing the probable lineup helps you appreciate the tactics and spot the hidden gems on the bench. Enjoy the game, and feel free to come back for updates as the season evolves.