Xabi Alonso will field his players in a 4-3-3 formation and is expected to make some changes to his first team for this clash. Gonzalo García could get the nod to lead Real Madrid’s attack at the top.
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4-3-3 Real Madrid’s planned lineup to face Talavera
Defense
Andriy Lunin will operate between the sticks for Los Blancos as they look to keep a clean sheet as a visitor. Raúl Asencio will function alongside Álvaro Carreras in the center of Real Madrid’s defensive line as they look to maintain defensive solidity throughout the 90 minutes.
Fran García will have the opportunity to replace him as a makeshift right-back, while Víctor Valdepeñas hopes to impress at the other side at left-back. Both will have to choose their moments to join the attack.
Dean Huijsen will cover the defensive positions on the bench.
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VITORIA-GASTEIZ, SPAIN – DECEMBER 14: Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso watches before the EA Sports LaLiga match between Deportivo Alavés and Real Madrid CF at Mendizorroza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Midfield
Aurelien Tchouameni and Dani Ceballos will act as holding midfielders as they hope to win the 50-50 battles in the center of the park.
The talented trio of Rodrygo, Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz will play just in front of them as part of Alonso’s attack. All three must be at their best if Los Blancos are to claim a convincing victory this week.
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Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler and Vinicius Junior will rest on the bench as they await their chance to make an impact in the second 45 minutes if necessary.
Stroke
Gonzalo García will lead the attack line of the Madrid giants. He would be eager to find the back of the net against Talavera this Wednesday night.
Kylian Mbappé will be rested on the bench and could influence the game in the closing stages if Los Blancos need a goal by then.