Real Madrid take their European momentum to Rome, where José Mourinho’s side face Roma at the Olimpico after opening their Champions League campaign with a home victory over Inter. The visit to Italy comes with Mourinho expected to field a strong selection as Madrid look to extend their early advantage in the competition.
Madrid’s European test in the Italian capital
The match offers Madrid a second successive Champions League meeting with Italian opposition, following their first-round win against Inter at the Bernabéu. The Olimpico now provides a markedly different setting, with Roma standing between Mourinho’s team and another important result in the league phase.
There are likely to be several alterations from the side used against Villarreal, particularly across the defensive line, but the core of the team is expected to remain intact.
- Thibaut Courtois is set to continue in goal.
- Trent should retain his place at right-back.
- Marc Cucurella is expected to replace Carreras on the left of defence.
- Ibrahima Konaté is due to start again at centre-back alongside Dean Huijsen.
- Antonio Rüdiger, who previously played for Roma, is expected to be given a rest.
Mourinho keeps faith in his midfield spine
Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni are expected to remain together in the double pivot, preserving the midfield partnership Mourinho has favoured. Jude Bellingham should again operate in the central attacking role behind the forward line.
Bernardo Silva’s recent form has weakened his claim for a starting berth in Rome. A place from the outset against Roma appears unlikely, although he could be more strongly considered for Sunday’s match with Sevilla.
Vinicius turns attention to Europe
Vinicius Junior is expected to start on the left wing after his red card against Villarreal. With the Brazilian facing a domestic suspension of either two or three matches, Champions League football will become his immediate principal stage.
Arda Güler is set to keep his place on the right, while Diomande is likely to begin among the substitutes. Kylian Mbappé is expected to lead the attack.
Possible Real Madrid line-up against Roma
- Courtois
- Trent, Huijsen, Konaté, Cucurella
- Valverde, Tchouaméni
- Güler, Bellingham, Vinicius
- Mbappé
