Ancelotti's Tough Decisions in Team Selection Before El Clasico

Only Thibaut Courtois is out of the starting lineup for Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid heading into El Clasico.

But there's one major caveat that could cast doubt. Fede Valverde has started every major game over the past six months on the right side of attack, but Rodrygo Goes' recent strong play may convince manager Carlo Ancelotti to change his mind.

Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and maybe one more player will make up the midfield. Since Casemiro's departure, Aurelien Tchouameni has been a reliable starter and a seamless replacement.

However, that would imply benching or moving Fede Valverde to the right side of the field. Ancelotti has said in recent weeks that Rodrygo is in his starting XI, but now that Karim Benzema is well again and Vinicius Junior can play on the left, he must choose between Rodrygo, Tchouameni, and Valverde.

It's more likely that Ancelotti will keep Tchouameni in the middle of the field with the other three players. Rodrygo has been a key contributor to seven goals and can play in a variety of forward positions. Valverde has contributed to four goals and two assists for the team this year and might provide a boost defensively.