Real Madrid changes expected as Mbappe and Bellingham prepare for Real Sociedad test

Real Madrid are expected to make several significant changes to their starting XI when they host Real Sociedad in LaLiga on Wednesday, 26 August, with Marc Cucurella set to return to the team and Arda Guler, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe likely to lead the attack.

The fixture is one of the standout matches of the midweek programme. Africafoot’s preview outlines the probable line-ups for both sides ahead of Real Madrid’s opening league match against Real Sociedad.

Real Madrid probable line-up

Cucurella was among the substitutes in the previous match but is expected to come into the starting side at left-back. Ibrahima Konate could also be handed a starting role, bringing his physical presence to the centre of defence alongside Dean Huijsen.

Federico Valverde and Bernardo Silva are set to form the central midfield pairing, while Jude Bellingham could operate in a more advanced position, as he did in the high-profile meeting with Espanyol.

Jose Mourinho is again expected to rely on Guler, Vinicius Junior and Mbappe to provide the attacking threat. Yan Diomande, described as the club’s star signing of the summer, could be introduced from the substitutes’ bench during the second half.

Real Madrid probable XI: Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois Defenders: Denzel Dumfries, Dean Huijsen, Ibrahima Konate, Marc Cucurella Defensive midfielders: Federico Valverde, Bernardo Silva Attacking midfielders: Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior Striker: Kylian Mbappe

The expected selection represents a side built around a strong attacking trio, with Bellingham positioned behind Mbappe and Guler and Vinicius Junior providing further creativity and width.

Real Sociedad probable line-up

Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo is expected to favour continuity and a disciplined system for the visit to the Bernabeu.

Alvaro Odriozola, Jon Gorrotxategi and Goncalo Guedes are unavailable because of injury. Their absences could lead to Jon Aramburu starting at right-back, with his inclusion intended to add defensive stability.

Carlos Soler is expected to begin in midfield, where his technical quality could help Real Sociedad control possession and build attacks. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal is likely to lead the line and will be relied upon to guide the Basque side’s attack from the centre-forward position.

Real Sociedad probable XI: Goalkeeper: Alex Remiro Defenders: Jon Aramburu, Jon Martin, Igor Zubeldia, Sergio Gomez Defensive midfielders: Carlos Soler, Yangel Herrera Attacking midfielders: Takefusa Kubo, Luka Sucic, Ander Barrenetxea Striker: Mikel Oyarzabal

The match will be Real Madrid’s first league fixture of the Spanish championship season, with Real Sociedad providing the opposition at the Bernabeu.

Betting company 1xBet gives Real Madrid odds of 1.34 to win. A draw is priced at 5.20, while a Real Sociedad victory is listed at 7.00.