Carlo Ancelotti has chosen an unexpected starting lineup for Real Madrid’s Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca on Wednesday, with Kylian Mbappe leading the front line alongside Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. The French forward was expected to play after a recent injury, but it was unclear if he would start.
However, Ancelotti has selected Mbappe as his number 9, with Eduardo Camavinga acting as the lone pivot behind an advanced midfield trio of Jude Bellingham, Fede Valverde, and Aurelien Tchouameni. The Real Madrid manager aims to boost his team’s energy and performance compared to their previous match.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Ancelotti emphasized that this is a unique opportunity for his team and that he is excited about the final against Mexican opposition. Despite concerns over player control, Ancelotti remains confident in his squad’s abilities.
The Real Madrid starting XI: Courtois; Fran, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Vazquez; Camavinga, Valverde, Bellingham; Vinicius, Mbappe, Rodrygo
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomsanderson/2024/12/18/real-madrid-vs-pachuca-starting-xi-ancelotti-has-a-huge-surprise