Real Madrid faces a crucial Champions League game tomorrow against Atalanta, as Los Blancos are playing for their future in the competition. Carlo Ancelotti's men are currently in a delicate situation and need a win to find a place in the top 24. Although reaching the top eight seems almost impossible at this stage, going out of the competition is a certain possibility if they don't get all three points in this encounter.
The challenge won't be easy, as Serie A leaders Atalanta are in outstanding shape for the game. The Italian team is proving to be one of the most powerful teams in Europe at the moment, especially in terms of attack, with an impressive record of goals scored. This makes Real Madrid's task of securing their defense even more crucial.
In this context, Antonio Rüdiger will be one of the pillars of defense in Madrid. The German center-back has shown his leadership ability in recent games and is clearly one of the key players in Madrid's defense. However, the big question in the build-up to the game is who will be Rüdiger's partner in the center back.
Two Options to Join Antonio Rüdiger in the Champions League
As of today, Carlo Ancelotti hasn't yet made a final decision on who will join Antonio Rüdiger against Atalanta in the Champions League. However, Raúl Asencio and Aurélien Tchouaméni are the only options he has.
Raúl Asencio has been the big revelation of the season. The youth-team player has taken advantage of his opportunity and has established himself as a starter alongside Antonio Rüdiger. That's why, despite his youth and lack of experience, many see him as a viable option to team up with Rüdiger against Atalanta.
On the other hand, Aurélien Tchouaméni enjoys Ancelotti's full trust and seems to be the favorite to partner Antonio Rüdiger. Tchouaméni has a great ability to read the game and his presence in defense gives Real Madrid additional solidity. However, his performance in that position hasn't yet been as consistent as Asencio's, which makes his inclusion as a starter far from certain.
For now, everything seems to indicate that Carlo Ancelotti will make the final decision just a few hours before the match, which keeps both players in suspense. The training sessions beforehand and the opinion of the management will be key to determine whether Raúl Asencio keeps his place or whether Aurélien Tchouaméni becomes the starter.
The only thing clear is that, after a season full of uncertainty and injuries, Real Madrid absolutely needs a victory against Atalanta. To achieve that, the defense must be stronger than ever. Only one of these players will be able to join Antonio Rüdiger in this vital task.