In the upcoming La Liga match, Real Madrid, facing defensive personnel shortages, will host Girona in a crucial game that could determine the league leader. Defensive setbacks were a contributing factor to Real Madrid conceding a late equalizer to Atletico Madrid in the previous round, resulting in a 1-1 draw despite their tactical superiority.

This outcome missed the opportunity for Real Madrid to widen the gap with Girona, who had a goalless draw against Sociedad. Now, as they prepare to face Girona, Real Madrid continues to receive unwelcome news on the defensive front.

Team captain Nacho is the latest to suffer an injury, leaving the Spanish giants without any fit center-backs. Antonio Rudiger has returned and is summoned for the La Liga round 24. However, the German player still experiences some discomfort in his foot, making it challenging to perform at his best.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti hopes Rudiger’s experience will compensate for his less-than-optimal physical condition in this crucial match. In addition to Rudiger, Tchouameni is likely to be a defensive option after serving a suspension.

The French midfielder has previously played in a makeshift center-back role and provides a more robust option than using Dani Carvajal, especially in aerial duels. The makeshift defense requires Real Madrid to be highly focused and avoid complacency, as seen in the recent derby against Atletico.

Girona enters the match in good form, particularly in attacking prowess, having scored 52 goals, the highest in La Liga. Manager Michel, linked to Chelsea as a potential replacement for Pochettino, cannot bring his strongest squad to Madrid, with Daley Blind and Yangel Herrera suspended, and David Lopez injured.

In contrast, striker Dovbyk has recovered from injury and poses a challenge to the home team’s defense. Real Madrid is the only team to have defeated Girona so far. At the Bernabeu, Ancelotti’s squad needs a bit of luck to secure three points.

Injury Update:

Real Madrid: Nacho, Alaba, Courtois, Militao (injured).

Girona: Blind, Herrera (suspended). David Lopez (injured).

Expected Lineups:

Real Madrid (4-3-1-2): Lunin; Carvajal, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Mendy; Valverde, Kroos, Camavinga; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius.

Girona (4-3-3): Gazzaniga; Yan Couto, Eric Garcia, Juanpe, Arnau, Miguel; Aleix Garcia, Ivan Martin; Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Savinho.