Vinícius Junior, Brazilian forward for Real Madrid, is the main addition to the squad list for next Tuesday's Champions League match against Atalanta. The "Merengue" team faces this challenge with several significant absences: Dani Carvajal, Éder Militao, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga will be unavailable. However, they will have the return of Rodrygo Goes and Jude Bellingham, both of whom have recovered from muscle issues.

Early return for Vinícius after his injury

Vinícius has expedited his recovery following an injury suffered on November 24 during a LaLiga match against Leganés. A tear in the biceps femoris of his left leg sidelined him for matches against Liverpool in the Champions League and against Getafe, Athletic Club, and Girona in the domestic league.

In addition to Vinícius, his compatriot Rodrygo also returns to the squad after being left out last minute against Girona due to discomfort in his left leg. Similarly, Englishman Bellingham, who had to leave the game at Montilivi due to muscle pain, and Brazilian Endrick, who suffered a severe head injury after colliding with the rival goalkeeper, are ready for the European showdown.

Defensive absences lead to youth call-ups

The absence of Ferland Mendy, who will be out for the rest of 2024, adds to those of David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Éder Militao. In response, Carlo Ancelotti has opted to reinforce the defense with academy players such as David Jiménez and Youssef Enríquez 'Yusi'. Additionally, midfielder Chema Andrés takes the place of Daniel Yáñez, the youngster who made his first-team debut at 17 years old in the match against Girona.

Real Madrid's squad list

The players called up to face Atalanta are:

• Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, and Sergio Mestre.
• Defenders: Lucas Vázquez, David Jiménez, Jesús Vallejo, Antonio Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, Fran García, Youssef Enríquez 'Yusi'.
• Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouaméni, Fede Valverde, Luka Modrić, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, Chema Andrés.
• Forwards: Rodrygo, Vinícius Junior, Kylian Mbappé, Endrick, Brahim Díaz.

This match will be crucial for the "Blancos" as they aim to secure their spot in the next round of the continental tournament.