Real Madrid hopes to add three 'reinforcements' next week

Carlo Ancelotti will recover three of his injured defenders for the rematch against Manchester City next Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu (21:00). Unlike the 'sky blue' team, which continues to suffer defensive losses, the 'merengues' are confident in recovering Lucas Vázquez, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba in time for the return of the UEFA Champions League 'play-off', with the Spaniard and the German being the only ones, however, in condition to be in the lineup.

"The injured players are improving. They will continue with individual work until Monday and will be available against City, including Lucas Vázquez", explained the Italian coach at the press conference prior to the match against Osasuna (16:15 in Pamplona). Besides the full-back, the 'merengue' team will recover the only two center-backs in the squad who have the coach's trust, as Jesús Vallejo is a definite discard and Raúl Asencio only enters the XI in case of emergency.

Ancelotti will bet on Lucas Vázquez again against City

At the Etihad Stadium, the academy player took charge of the defense alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, performing well. Initially, Rüdiger would be a starter in the return against City, pairing again with the criticized French midfielder. Yes, 'Carletto' insists on putting the Frenchman above the Spanish defender, regardless of the performance of both in recent weeks. The same goes for Vázquez, who despite his problems on the right side will return to the XI next week.

"Valverde will continue until Lucas returns. He contributes a lot and I liked him against City. He actually likes this position. Tomorrow we will continue with him", explained Ancelotti. On Saturday, Madrid is obliged to defeat Osasuna at El Sadar to maintain the lead in LaLiga. A draw or loss against the 'rojillos' will allow Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona to surpass the 'merengues' in the table, provided both win their respective home matches against Celta and Real Sociedad.