As Real Madrid prepare for the UEFA Super Cup final against Serie A side Atalanta next Wednesday in Warsaw, the fixture holds significant importance beyond just another title.
For Real Madrid, it represents an opportunity to kick off the season with a victory and to make strides towards a historic septuple in the 2024/25 season.
Additionally, this match offers Carlo Ancelotti a chance to equal the legendary Miguel Muñoz’s record of 14 titles with the club.
Ancelotti’s lineup for UEFA Super Cup
As reported by Diario AS, Ancelotti has given a clear indication of his lineup strategy. The Italian coach has emphasized continuity, hinting that newcomers like Endrick and Kylian Mbappe may not feature in the starting XI.
It appears Ancelotti’s focus is on maintaining stability from last season’s Champions League-winning squad.
“You have to take into account those players who won the Champions League,” Ancelotti remarked, echoing his approach before previous Super Cup matches, such as the 2-0 wins over Sevilla in 2014 and Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022.
In terms of lineup changes, the coach will be missing Toni Kroos and Nacho, who were key in Real Madrid’s recent European triumph at Wembley.
Nacho’s position will be filled by Eder Militao, while Kroos will be replaced by Luka Modric. At 38, Modric has been exceptional during the recent US tour, showcasing his enduring quality by playing significant minutes against Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea.
A notable uncertainty surrounds the midfield role, with Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouaméni both vying for the spot. Tchouameni’s recent injury opens the door for Camavinga, who started in London.
However, it’s likely the final will see several substitutions in the second half, with key players like Dani Carvajal, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde having had only a week of pre-season training.