Real Madrid are already playing catch-up at the start of the 2024/25 La Liga season.

Carlo Ancelotti’s star-studded side have dropped points on both their road trips this term and have fallen four points behind rivals Barcelona heading into matchday five. A trip to Real Sociedad is not a simple proposition as Los Blancos look to close the gap, especially given injuries will impact the reigning Spanish champions in San Sebastian.

While Jude Bellingham may return in some capacity, Madrid could be without Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba and Dani Ceballos for Saturday’s duel. Both Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy are also doubts.

Here is how Madrid could line up for the weekend clash.

GK: Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian stopper hasn’t been tested too frequently in the opening weeks of the season but has been typically reliable when called upon. Expecting nothing less against Real Sociedad.

RB: Dani Carvajal – The surprise Ballon d’Or contender continues to be Madrid’s undisputed first-choice at right-back and has been characteristically fiery but consistent this season.

CB: Antonio Rudiger – The glue that holds Madrid’s defence together, Rudiger has started 2024/25 in fine form. He will be eager to earn a third La Liga clean sheet of the season at the Reale Arena.

CB: Eder Militao – There are concerns over Militao’s availability this weekend after he sustained a knee injury with Brazil over the international break. However, he’s expected to feature at the weekend, much to the relief of Ancelotti.

LB: Ferland Mendy – Similarly to Militao, there are doubts over Mendy’s fitness after he withdrew from the France squad. But, like his Brazilian teammate, he should be passed fit this weekend, with young Fran Garcia on-call just in case.

DM: Federico Valverde – Madrid’s strongest performer this term, Valverde may be asked to do significantly more defensive work this weekend if Tchouameni misses out through injury.

DM: Luka Modric – Potentially coming in for the French midfielder, veteran Modric could feature in his 22nd game against Real Sociedad. He was busy with Croatia over the international period and should be match sharp.

RW: Rodrygo – Rodrygo returns to Madrid after scoring the winner for Brazil in their clash with Ecuador and he will be aiming to continue his impressive early season form. The winger may not earn the same attention as his attacking teammates, but he’s just as crucial to Madrid’s success.

AM: Jude Bellingham – Having missed England duty and the past few games for Madrid, the magical Bellingham could make his comeback in San Sebastian. Madrid have certainly missed his creativity during his absence.

LW: Vinicius Junior – The Brazilian may have drawn blanks in Madrid’s two home games this term but he’s bagged a goal and assist in draws on the road. If he plays well, Madrid likely win this weekend.

ST: Kylian Mbappe – After opening his La Liga account against Real Betis prior to the international break, Mbappe should be raring to add to his tally this Saturday. He scored three times for Paris Saint-Germain against Real Sociedad in last season’s Champions League.

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