Real Madrid defender major doubt for derby vs Atletico, two makeshift replacements identified

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger suffered a blow to his left thigh during his tussle with Mason Greenwood in Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Getafe. While the German defender continued in the first period, obvious discomfort forced him out at half-time.

Right now, there is no affirmation over the gravity of his injury, but if a report from AS is to be believed, Rudiger remains a doubt for the upcoming derby match against Atletico Madrid. 

According to sources within the club, Rudiger has sustained a significant impact on his left thigh. However, the possibility of a muscle injury has been dismissed, leaving open the chance of his participation in the upcoming derby.

So what’s the plan?

It is to be noted that during the game, Eduardo Camavinga was seen warming up during Rudiger’s troubles and by the stroke of half-time, the Frenchman was introduced, forcing Aurelien Tchouameni to move back to central defence.

Now, during the added minutes of the second half, Tchouameni picked up a yellow, resulting in an automatic suspension for the derby. This means if Rudiger fails to recover in time, Real Madrid will head into the derby with only one centre-back, namely Nacho.

“If we don’t have Rüdiger we will put in another centre-back who will not be used to playing there, but will do it very well,” affirmed Ancelotti after the Getafe game.

Who would that be?

Judging by the look of things, the likes of Dani Carvajal or Ferland Mendy are likely to be used as a centre-back against Atletico.

Carvajal, in particular, has never started in that position, with his only notable appearance as a centre-back occurring during extra time against Chelsea in the Champions League.

On the other hand, Mendy has been deployed as a starting centre-back twice under Zidane in the 2020-21 season. However, there’s a nuance to this as he occupied the left centre-back position in a formation featuring three centre-backs and two full-backs. 

This strategic move paid off, resulting in two victories without conceding any goals, with Mendy even scoring against Getafe. 

The looming question is whether Mendy can replicate the same success in a conventional four-man defensive line.