Real Madrid are just a day away from their big Champions League encounter against Manchester City.
The reigning European champions were dealt a major blow at the weekend, with Lucas Vazquez, the club’s only option at right-back, picking up an injury.
Lucas’ injury led to all sorts of speculation as to how Carlo Ancelotti is planning to fill in his position heading into the Manchester City game.
There were even reports of Federico Valverde potentially being deployed in the right-back position, on account of no other alternatives.
According to COPE, though, Valverde might get to retain his place in midfield after all, as Ancelotti is trying a new combination for the fullback spots.
As per the report, the Italian manager has practiced with Ferland Mendy at right-back and Fran Garcia at left-back, heading into the Manchester City game.
This is a pivot from Ancelotti’s earlier solutions, which included playing Eduardo Camavinga at left-back or Valverde at right-back.
This time around, it appears the Italian is ready to opt for more conventional options, though he will be hoping that Mendy can effortlessly slot into the opposite flank.
Mendy and Garcia operating out wide could see Valverde retain his position in the middle of the park. This is quite significant as the Uruguayan international’s work-ethic and aggression could be integral in breaking down Man City’s build-up play in midfield.
As for Mendy and Garcia, the onus will be on them to keep a lid on Man City’s wide attackers tonight.