Real Madrid's likely lineup vs Villarreal: Konaté starts and Güler replaces Valverde

Real Madrid take on Villarreal this Saturday at 21:00 in a fixture that could shape the rest of their season. The Spanish giants need to silence doubts about their performances and also prevent Barcelona, who play earlier at home to Getafe, from extending their lead at the top of the standings. That is why José Mourinho is preparing a full-strength starting eleven.

• Real Madrid visit Villarreal this Saturday at 21:00 in LaLiga.
• Konaté overcomes knee discomfort and returns to the starting lineup in central defense.
• Güler starts on the right wing after Fede Valverde is ruled out as a precaution.
• Bernardo Silva joins Tchouaméni in midfield to add more possession and combination play.
• Diomande remains on the bench despite arriving from Leipzig this summer for 146 million euros.

Real Madrid's defense vs Villarreal: Konaté returns to the lineup

The biggest news at the back is the return of Konaté. The French center-back had been dealing with knee discomfort that put his participation in doubt, but he made the squad and will start. He partners Rüdiger in central defense, while Cucurella and Dumfries occupy the full-back positions. As a result, Tchouaméni will not need to drop into the back line and can play in midfield.

Midfield: Bernardo Silva and Tchouaméni anchor the team

In midfield, Mourinho will rely on a pairing that balances work rate and creativity. Tchouaméni operates as the holding midfielder alongside Bernardo Silva, who has barely featured for Portugal in recent weeks and can add the kind of combination play Madrid have been missing. Ahead of them, Jude Bellingham will play as the attacking link with the front three.

Güler steps in for Valverde on the right wing

Fede Valverde's absence as a precaution opens a spot on the right side of the attack, and Arda Güler is the chosen replacement. The Turkish winger completes the lineup with Vinicius on the left and Mbappé leading the line. It is a clear opportunity for Güler to prove himself in a high-stakes match.

Diomande still waiting despite his expensive summer arrival

Diomande's situation stands out. He joined from Leipzig this summer for 146 million euros but has yet to secure regular starter status. Rüdiger and Konaté remain the preferred center-back pairing for now, leaving the new signing waiting for his chance.

Real Madrid's expected XI against Villarreal

The expected Real Madrid lineup is as follows: Courtois in goal; Cucurella, Konaté, Rüdiger and Dumfries in defense; Tchouaméni and Bernardo Silva in central midfield; and Bellingham, Vinicius, Güler and Mbappé in the attacking positions.

Expected Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Cucurella, Konaté, Rüdiger, Dumfries; Tchouaméni, Bernardo Silva; Bellingham, Vinicius, Güler and Mbappé.

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