Overview
- Matchday lineups list Vinícius in Real Madrid’s XI, ending speculation of a benching following his reaction to a Clásico substitution.
- Xabi Alonso said the matter was “zanjado” after a midweek squad meeting and emphasized there would be no reprisals despite the player’s public apology not naming him.
- Real Madrid host Valencia at the Bernabéu leading LaLiga by five points and turning quickly to a midweek Champions League trip to Anfield.
- Injuries and absences shape Madrid’s choices, with Carvajal out for 6–8 weeks and Alaba, Rüdiger and suspended goalkeeper Lunin unavailable.
- Valencia arrive in the relegation zone after a poor league run, buoyed only by a 5–0 Copa win, as Madrid promote the fixture with the message “La calma antes de la tempestad.”