Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that he will be making several lineup rotations for the upcoming La Liga match against Granada on Saturday. This decision comes as Real Madrid has already secured their 36th Spanish top-flight title following their 3-0 victory over Cadiz last week, coupled with Girona’s 4-2 win against FC Barcelona.
Speaking at his prematch press conference on Friday, Ancelotti stated that the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1st is in the back of his mind as he prepares the team. The Italian coach emphasized the importance of respecting the opponent and the competition, highlighting that the games leading up to the final will aid in their preparation. Ancelotti also mentioned the need for rotation to ensure that all players reach peak form and rest adequately after a demanding season, with celebrations planned following Saturday’s game.
In terms of lineup changes, Ancelotti confirmed that Thibaut Courtois will start in goal, with Eder Militao partnering with Antonio Rudiger in central defense. Lucas Vazquez will take on the role of right back, while Fran Garcia will fill in on the left to provide rest for Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy. In midfield, Eduardo Camavinga will play as a lone pivot due to Aurelien Tchouameni’s injury, supporting Luka Modric and Dani Ceballos. Brahim Diaz and Arda Guler will feature as the left and right wingers, respectively.
The decision to leave out key players such as Toni Kroos, Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham shows Ancelotti’s commitment to managing the squad effectively ahead of the Champions League final. This approach allows players like Courtois, who returned from a long injury layoff, and Militao to prove their readiness for the crucial clash in London. Meanwhile, Joselu, who recently emerged as a hero for Real Madrid with crucial goals against Bayern Munich, will lead the line as the lone striker against Granada.
Overall, Ancelotti’s lineup rotations for the Granada match demonstrate his focus on squad management and preparation for the upcoming Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. By giving playing time to less frequently used players and resting key figures, Real Madrid aims to hit peak performance levels for the decisive European showdown in June. The strategic decisions taken by the head coach underline his intent to ensure that the team is well-prepared physically and mentally for the challenges ahead.
