Ancelotti Names Strong Real Madrid Starting Lineup for UCL Clash vs Arsenal

• Carlo Ancelotti has named a strong Real Madrid starting eleven for the huge UEFA CL clash against Arsenal
• The Gunners head into the key Champions League QF match with a 3-0 advantage from the first leg
• The Real Madrid starting team features key players such as Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr

Real Madrid have officially announced their starting lineup for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal, as they attempt to overturn a daunting 3-0 deficit suffered in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

The match, set to be played at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, April 16, is arguably one of the most important fixtures for Los Blancos in the current season, as they aim to keep their hopes for a record-extending 16th UCL title alive.

Familiar Face Between the Posts

The influential Thibaut Courtois, who was imprressive despite conceding three goals in the first encounter, is in between the sticks for Real Madrid.

The Belgian shot-stopper’s experience and composure will be vital as Madrid aim to keep a clean sheet while mounting an ambitious comeback.

Reshuffled and Risky Backline

Manager Carlo Ancelotti has made notable changes to the defense, opting for an unorthodox back four that sees Lucas Vázquez and David Alaba take up full-back roles.

The central defensive pairing includes Antonio Rüdiger and 20-year-old Raul Asencio, who earns a surprise start in what is the biggest match of his fledgling career.

The young Spaniard will have his hands full against a dynamic Arsenal attack that ran rampant in the first leg.

Midfield Engine Room Looks to Dominate

In midfield, Real Madrid line up with a blend of defensive steel and creative flair. Aurélien Tchouaméni will anchor the midfield in a defensive role, providing cover for the back four while looking to disrupt Arsenal’s transitions.

He is joined by Uruguayan Federico Valverde, whose box-to-box energy will be key to linking defense and attack as Luka Modric, who is repotedly leaving Real Madrid at the end of the current campaign, takes a place on the bench.

The creative burden falls on Jude Bellingham. The Englishman will need to produce a standout performance to inspire a comeback, offering both goal-scoring threat and playmaking ability.

Real Madrid's Deadly Front Three

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Madrid’s lineup is their formidable front three of Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Rodrygo.

The attacking trio is capable of turning any game on its head, and tonight they must do just that.

Rodrygo and Vinícius will provide pace and width on the flanks, while ex-PSG attacker Mbappé, playing as the central striker, will look to pierce through Arsenal’s defense with his speed and lethal finishing.

A Night for Legends or a Lesson in Futility?

With the odds stacked against them, Real Madrid are hoping that the magic of the Bernabéu and the talent in their lineup can produce one of the most memorable comebacks in Champions League history.

Ancelotti’s selection is both brave and bold, setting the stage for a dramatic night of football in the Spanish capital. Whether it ends in glory or heartbreak remains to be seen, but Madrid fans can be sure their team is going all in.

Josh Kroenke Receives Special Real Madrid Gift

YEN.com.gh earlier reported the special gift Arsenal director, Josh Kroenke, received from Real Madrid President Florentino Perez ahead of the Real Madrid vs Arsenal UEFA CL game on Wednesday.

The Arsenal chief was handed a replica of the iconic Santiago Bernebeu Stadium, which is one of the most aesthetic football stadiums in the world now.

Source: YEN.com.gh