Real Madrid returns to action in LaLiga EA Sports with the mission of consolidating their recent resurgence and defending the top spot they claimed following Barcelona's stumble and Atlético Madrid's slowdown. Carlo Ancelotti's side, with three consecutive wins across competitions, will visit Real Valladolid, the bottom team on the table, at the Estadio José Zorrilla, aiming to extend their good form.

A Revitalized Real Madrid and Key Rotations

The Madridistas arrive with renewed momentum, having scored 14 goals in their last three matches, delivering a strong response after their Supercopa de España loss to Barcelona. However, with a grueling schedule of eight matches in 25 days, Ancelotti is set to rotate his lineup.

The absence of Vinícius Junior, serving his second match of suspension, forces adjustments in attack. Ancelotti is expected to field a front three of Kylian Mbappé, in exceptional form with 19 goals this season, alongside Rodrygo Goes and Brahim Díaz. On defense, Lucas Vázquez returns after serving his suspension, while Fede Valverde will reinforce the midfield, and Aurélien Tchouaméni could start after recovering from minor injuries.

Historically, Real Madrid has enjoyed success at Pucela, remaining unbeaten in their last seven visits and not losing there since 2008. They will look to maintain that dominance against a struggling Valladolid side.

A Valladolid in Crisis

For Valladolid, the situation is grim as they sit at the bottom of the LaLiga EA Sports standings. The team, under Diego Cocca, faces significant challenges, particularly after losing Juma Bah to Manchester City.

Adding to their woes, they will be without Raúl Moro, sidelined due to injury, and Juric, who is suspended. The team's hopes rest on players like Marcos André, currently in fine form, and the returning Cenk Ozkacar, who could provide a boost to their weakened defense. However, winter transfer window reinforcements seem critical for Valladolid to climb out of the relegation zone.