Mourinho plans heavy rotation against AEK Athens with six Real Madrid players in contention

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is considering rotating his squad for the Champions League encounter against AEK Athens, with several first-team players potentially earning opportunities in Greece.

According to Defensa Central, the likes of Denzel Dumfries, Alvaro Carreras, Eduardo Camavinga, Antonio Rudiger, Endrick and Brahim Diaz are among those competing for starting places as the Portuguese coach looks to manage his squad during a demanding run of away fixtures.

As per the outlet, Mourinho has indicated that he is considering three or four changes, confirming that Aurelien Tchouameni will be rested.

With Real Madrid preparing to travel to Valencia just after their European assignment, the manager is keen to distribute playing time without compromising the team’s competitiveness.

The most clearly identified change concerns the midfield, where Camavinga is expected to replace Tchouameni.

The Frenchman impressed during Real Madrid’s recent victory at the Camp Nou and now has an opportunity to demonstrate his qualities from the beginning.

Mourinho has not yet confirmed whether further midfield changes are planned, leaving the possibility of additional adjustments depending on his assessment of the players’ workload.

The Real Madrid manager could also make adjustments to their defensive line, with three players emerging as alternatives.

Dumfries is among the candidates for the right-back position, while Carreras could provide an option on the opposite flank.

Both players were left out of the starting XI against Racing last weekend, and their inclusion would provide others a much-needed rest.

At the same time, Rudiger is another name in contention. The German defender started against Roma and remains an important option.

If the German is indeed included, Mourinho will have to decide who among Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate will be dropped.

The attacking department could also feature changes, with Endrick and Brahim Diaz both hoping to earn starting opportunities.

Endrick can draw confidence from his contribution during the match against Roma, where he demonstrated his ability to influence proceedings.

The Brazilian is looking for greater involvement, and the Champions League encounter could provide another opportunity to make an impression.

Brahim offers Mourinho additional flexibility in the final third, and his place in the starting XI will give him a much-needed opportunity under the manager.