Xabi Alonso previously stated in his pre-match press conference that academy players would get opportunities, but he cautioned against overconfidence or unnecessary risks. Consequently, the Real Madrid coach assembled a squad that offers some rest while integrating seven young talents, yet still features key figures such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius, and Jude Bellingham.

Regarding absentees, the most notable decision sees the Tolosa-born manager rest Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger. Initially, Raul Asencio made the list and the news was published, but the club updated it minutes later, confirming the defender's withdrawal due to fever. Instead of calling up another player, they simply kept the squad at 21 footballers. Injured players Eder Militao, Carvajal, Alexander-Arnold, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy also remain sidelined.

On the other hand, Xabi Alonso also called up five outfield players from Real Madrid's reserve team, in addition to goalkeepers Fran Gonzalez and Javier Navarro. Victor Valdepenas retains his place after starting in the league against Deportivo Alaves, joined by right-back David Jimenez, centre-back Joan Martinez, and midfielders Jorge Cestero and Thiago Pitarch.

Some uncertainty surrounded Kylian Mbappe's inclusion, but the Real Madrid coach opted against taking any unnecessary risks. The key question now is whether he will give Endrick and Gonzalo an opportunity to play, or if he will rely on the Frenchman, much like Hansi Flick did with Lamine Yamal against Guadalajara. The Frenchman requires three goals in the remaining two matches to equal Cristiano Ronaldo's record as the club's highest scorer in a calendar year, with 59 goals.

Real Madrid's squad to face Talavera

Goalkeepers: Andriy Lunin, Fran Gonzalez, and Javi Navarro.

Defenders: Alvaro Carreras, Fran Garcia, Dean Huijsen, David Jimenez, Joan Martinez, and Valdepenas.

Midfielders: Bellingham, Tchouameni, Arda Guler, Dani Ceballos, Jorge Cestero, and Thiago Pitarch.

Forwards: Vinicius, Endrick, Mbappe, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, and Mastantuono.

T. Pitarch

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