Xabi Alonso has already locked in his starting XI for Atletico Madrid showdown

Real Madrid are preparing for a defining night in the Super Cup, and Xabi Alonso has decided there is no room for experimentation. 

According to an update shared by Antonio Romero and relayed by Defensa Central, the Real Madrid manager is set to trust the very same starting XI that dismantled Real Betis when his side face Atletico Madrid.

While the Super Cup may not be the most prestigious competition of the season, it has taken on enormous importance. 

This match is widely viewed as a turning point, not just for Real Madrid’s campaign, but for Alonso’s own future on the bench. 

There is a strong feeling within the club that an elimination at this stage could put his position in serious danger.

The same XI

With that pressure in mind, Alonso is sticking to what worked so well against Betis. 

Gonzalo Garcia will once again lead the line, continuing a remarkable rise that has quickly turned him into the team’s main attacking reference. 

Gonzalo Garcia will lead the lines for Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

He will be supported by Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes, a trio that combines pace, movement and directness. 

In defence, Raul Asencio is expected to come in for Dean Huijsen, while Federico Valverde will continue at right-back, a role he has adapted to with impressive discipline and intensity.

The full expected XI: Thibaut Courtois; Alvaro Carreras, Antonio Rudiger, Raul Asencio, Federico Valverde; Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr. and Gonzalo Garcia. 

One major absence is that of Kylian Mbappe, who has not travelled with the squad, as he is still recovering in Madrid from a sprained left knee. 

The French forward’s chances of featuring, even if Real Madrid reach the final, are considered extremely slim. 

As a result, the responsibility has shifted decisively onto the shoulders of Gonzalo García.