Real Madrid – Dortmund: The probable XI of Carlo Ancelotti with two big changes

After a bitter defeat in Lille, Real Madrid receives this Tuesday at Santiago Bernabeu, Borussia Dortmund for the third day of the Champions League. On the eve of this remake of last season’s final, we present the most likely composition of Carlo AncelottiThis Tuesday, Real Madrid will welcome Borussia Dortmund to the Santiago Bernabéu for their Champions League match on the third day of the group stage. The game holds special significance as it marks a reunion for Jude Bellingham with his former club. Carlo Ancelotti, who was not entirely pleased with his team’s performance in Saturday’s narrow victory against Celta Vigo, is expected to make notable changes to his starting eleven.

Fran García, who struggled against Celta Vigo, is likely to be replaced at left-back by Ferland Mendy. Another anticipated change is the return of veteran Luka Modric to the starting lineup after his impactful appearance in Vigo, where he assisted Vinicius Jr.’s winning goal. Modric, 39, could take Eduardo Camavinga’s place in midfield for this crucial fixture.

Lucas Vázquez, who filled in for the injured Dani Carvajal on Saturday, may retain his spot at right-back despite not being entirely convincing. However, Ancelotti is reportedly considering using Eder Militao in that position, which would move Aurélien Tchouaméni to central defense alongside Antonio Rüdiger, with Camavinga then resuming a role in midfield.

The expected changes point toward only two key adjustments: the returns of Ferland Mendy and Luka Modric to the starting XI against Borussia Dortmund.

**Projected Real Madrid lineup vs. Borussia Dortmund**: Thibaut Courtois; Ferland Mendy, Eder Militao, Antonio Rüdiger, Lucas Vázquez; Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, Luka Modric; Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappé.