Carvajal, Alaba start in a 4-3-3 – How Real Madrid can line up against Athletic Club
Carvajal, Alaba start in a 4-3-3 – How Real Madrid can line up against Athletic Club It has not been the season Real Madrid dreamed of, but the club now has one final opportunity to leave a better impression before attention fully turns towards a new era under Jose Mourinho . Saturday night’s clash against Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabeu will officially bring the curtain down on a frustrating 2025/26 campaign for Los Blancos . After finishing behind fierce rivals Barcelona in the league standings and ending the season without silverware, change now appears inevitable within the Spanish capital.
Furthermore, the match will also mark the end of Alvaro Arbeloa’s short spell in charge. The former defender is set to step aside immediately after the game, with Mourinho widely tipped to complete a sensational return to Madrid next week. Even though there is little left to play for competitively, emotions are expected to run high at the Bernabeu due to several farewell moments planned before and after kickoff.
Defence Carvajal will play his final game for Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Much of the spotlight is expected to fall on Dani Carvajal , who is preparing to make his final appearance for Real Madrid. The experienced right-back is expected to start one last time in front of the home fans before bringing an unforgettable chapter to an end.
Another emotional goodbye could arrive for David Alaba . The Austrian defender’s contract situation had been discussed for months, and the club confirmed this week that his deal will not be extended beyond the summer. Furthermore, Thibaut Courtois is likely to continue in goal as he builds rhythm after his recent return from injury problems.
Alongside Alaba in central defence, youngster Raul Asencio could once again receive an opportunity to impress. On the left side, Fran Garcia is expected to get the nod ahead of Alvaro Carreras. Midfield Valverde will return to the starting XI.