Arda Guler has the edge as Jose Mourinho weighs one final Real Madrid selection call

A report published on Tuesday says Jose Mourinho has settled almost all of his Real Madrid starting XI for Wednesday’s La Liga meeting with Real Sociedad, with the only major uncertainty involving the right-wing position.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Mourinho is expected to make only minor changes to his line-up. Marc Cucurella is set to make his first appearance at left-back, while Bernardo Silva is likely to retain his place in midfield.

There is no doubt over the goalkeeper. Thibaut Courtois is expected to start, following the unwritten rule that, provided he is available, he will play. With the new season having only just begun, that principle remains in place.

The defence is also largely decided. Denzel Dumfries is expected to operate at right-back, with Cucurella on the opposite flank. Ibrahima Konate and Dean Huijsen are set to continue as Mourinho’s central defensive pairing.

In midfield, the continued absence of Aurelien Tchouameni has left a choice between Eduardo Camavinga and Bernardo Silva. The Portugal international is currently considered the stronger candidate to begin the match, while Federico Valverde is regarded as certain to start.

The main focus, however, is on the right side of the attack. One possible solution would see Arda Guler play in a deeper role and create more room for Ousmane Diomande on the right wing. That option is viewed as unlikely, though.

The prevailing view is that Guler and Diomande should compete directly for the wide position. At present, Guler has the advantage and is considered the leading candidate to start against Real Sociedad.

The remainder of the attacking line-up is not expected to be debated. Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe are all expected to feature, with their selection described as non-negotiable whenever they are available.

The projected Real Madrid team is therefore Courtois; Dumfries, Konate, Huijsen and Cucurella; Valverde and Bernardo Silva; Guler or Diomande; Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Mbappe.

The report said the match will take place on Wednesday in La Liga. It also invited readers to discuss the latest football news and topics in the Kooora forums.