Following a two week hiatus from club football, Real Madrid will host Athletic Club this Sunday at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With Barcelona slowly but steadily breathing down their neck, the Merengues will be eager to widen the gap in the points table
However, the road to victory is not expected to be a walk in the park, as Real Madrid will be in the absence of one of their standout performers of the year: Vinicius Jr.
The Brazilian was suspended for the clash after he picked up a yellow card against Osasuna in Real Madrid’s most recent La Liga encounter.
Now, coach Carlo Ancelotti is obliged to devise a safety blanket to ensure Vinicius’ vacancy from the starting XI does not weigh too heavily.
Brahim being sought as the alternative
According to Defensa Central, the Royal Whites plan on employing Brahim Diaz in the starting XI, who has chimed in with several noteworthy displays this season.
Since rejoining Real Madrid from AC Milan, the attacking midfielder has notched 13 direct goal contributions in all competitions, despite sporadic game time.
His performances this season even caught the eye of both the Moroccon and Spanish national team, with both countries engaged in a tug of war to acquire his services. Eventually, Morocco earned Brahim’s seal of approval.
As per the same report, Brahim will operate on the left-hand side against Ernesto Valverde’s team, accompanied by Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo in the attack.
The season is spicing up
With the schedule of games ahead of them, the upcoming game weeks offer a pivotal time for Real Madrid’s goals in both La Liga and Europe.
After locking horns against Athletic Club, the focus will immediately be diverted to Manchester City in the Champions League.
Games against Barcelona and Real Sociedad will also take place in the upcoming month of April, which could either make or break Real Madrid’s La Liga campaign.