Real Madrid, riding an 18-game unbeaten streak, face a seemingly inconsequential challenge in the Copa del Rey – a trip to fifth-tier Arandina. With their sights set on a fifth consecutive win and a place in the Round of 16, the La Liga giants are overwhelming favorites.
For Arandina, the mere opportunity to host and test themselves against Real Madrid is a triumph. Despite winning only one of their last eight matches, the minnows cherish this unlikely date with destiny.
READ: Who is Arda Guler? The 18-year-old ‘Turkish Messi’ Wanted by Europe’s Biggest Clubs
A victory would be a footballing fairytale, but stranger things have indeed happened.
Adding to the intrigue, Real Madrid’s young Turkish prodigy, Arda Guler, has made a surprise return to the bench. After two injury setbacks, his long-awaited debut could finally materialize in this clash.
Guler has made the squad and is expected to make his debut tonight after a length wait on the sidelines.
In fact, Real boss Carlos Ancelotti revealed that Guler might even get to start today in his pre-match press conference yesterday.
“Arda can start tomorrow. We will make a decision then”, as per reports from Marca.
However, it’s far from all sunshine for Real Madrid. Key absences include Courtois, Militao, Alaba, Mendy, Kroos, and Vazquez, all nursing serious knee injuries.
Nacho’s return from suspension provides some defensive cover, but the depleted squad adds a touch of unpredictability to the seemingly one-sided affair.
Full Real Madrid squad:
Goalkeepers: Kepa, Lunin
Defenders: Rudiger, Garcia, Carvajal
Midfielders: Tchouameni, Valverde, Camavinga, Ceballos, Modric, Bellingham, Guler
Forwards: Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Joselu, Brahim
