Real Madrid face Rayo Vallecano with Mourinho set to keep faith with familiar line-up

Real Madrid return to La Liga action on Saturday looking to recover from their surprise defeat by Real Betis when they host Rayo Vallecano in the fifth round of the Spanish championship.

Jose Mourinho is expected to make limited changes, with Ibrahima Konate likely to continue alongside Dean Huijsen in central defence. Marc Cucurella is projected to start at left-back.

Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga are expected to form the midfield pairing, providing balance and energy in the centre of the pitch. Arda Guler should also return to the starting XI after missing the Champions League match against Inter Milan through suspension.

Real Madrid remain without Raul Asencio, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo, who are all injured. Ivory Coast striker Yan Diomande could again begin on the bench, although supporters are eager to see him given a starting role.

Probable Real Madrid line-up

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella

Defensive midfielders: Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga

Attacking midfielders: Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior

Striker: Kylian Mbappe

Rayo Vallecano will also make important adjustments for the encounter, beginning in goal. Daniel Cardenas is expected to replace Augusto Batalla, who has suffered a serious leg injury.

In attack, Brazilian forward Alemao is set to start in place of Jorge de Frutos, who is suspended. Isi Palazon’s injury means Rayo Vallecano are likely to strengthen their midfield as they attempt to control Real Madrid’s attacking pressure.

Marash Kumbulla and Raul de Tomas are also unavailable for the visitors.

Probable Rayo Vallecano line-up

Goalkeeper: Daniel Cardenas

Defenders: Andrei Ratiu, Florian Lejeune, Pathe Ciss, Adria Pedrosa

Midfielders: Pedro Diaz, Oscar Valentin, Unai Lopez

Forwards: Alemao, Sergio Camello, Alvaro Garcia

The match will be Real Madrid’s fifth La Liga fixture of the season. The published betting prices make the home side strong favourites, with Real Madrid listed at 1.10 to win, a draw at 8.80 and a Rayo Vallecano victory at 17.00.