Real Madrid has an important LaLiga match against Rayo Vallecano, but Carlo Ancelotti hasn't been able to keep his mind off the Champions League. The Italian has crafted a line-up with the return leg of the round of 16 in mind, which will be played next Wednesday at the Metropolitano: failure is not an option. That's why there have been various absences in the Madrid team, with the focus on the upcoming days.
Fede Valverde, substitute in Madrid-Rayo
Madrid is having many problems at right-back since Carvajal's injury. Ancelotti has tried many things. The option that has convinced him the most involves changing Fede Valverde's position.
Valverde has shown a great level, but he is having many physical problems that are preventing him from playing more. He has been heavily used this season. Now, the time has come to take care of him so that he is available for important dates.
Unless absolutely necessary, Valverde won't play a single minute against Rayo Vallecano. Ancelotti has confirmed this to him privately, telling him: "You're not playing today, but at the Metropolitano, you'll be a starter". This is the plan, and he intends to follow it strictly.
The same has happened with Courtois and Rüdiger, although they have been left out of the squad. In his case, Fede Valverde will be sitting on the bench, but he won't play. The main goal in this match is clear: the Uruguayan must rest as much as possible to be ready for the Metropolitano.
Ancelotti has a plan for the Metropolitano
Even though Madrid approaches the tie with an advantage from the 2-1 win in the first leg against Atlético, Ancelotti doesn't want any surprises. The Metropolitano will be a challenging place, and everyone will need to be at their best to overcome the great rival of the capital.
That's why, against Rayo, Courtois and Rüdiger have rested, just as it is expected that Fede Valverde will. Ancelotti is preparing the starting eleven for the return leg of the Champions League. Unless there is a surprise or unexpected turn, it is expected that all the important players will be available.
We are facing a match that could determine, for better or worse, the course of the season. Ancelotti is aware of this and doesn't want any surprises, he expects everyone to be focused. He knows the Champions League is priority, but he is by no means going to give up on this League, which is still possible.