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Real Madrid's star signing could be sacrificed for team balance during the UEFA Super Cup match against Atalanta
Kylian Mbappe's move to Real Madrid was the headline transfer of the summer, with expectations sky-high for the French superstar. However, despite the buzz surrounding his arrival, Mbappe might not be in the starting lineup for the UEFA Super Cup clash against Atalanta.
Real Madrid set to take on Atalanta for European glory
UEFA Champions League holders Real Madrid are preparing for their first official match of the 2024-25 season, with a UEFA Super Cup showdown against Atalanta, the reigning Europa League champions.
The Super Cup offers Ancelotti an early opportunity to experiment with his squad, especially since key players like Mbappe and Jude Bellingham were not available during pre-season, but the Italian tactician could still leave the French newcomer on the bench.
Mbappe to Start on the Bench?
According to Spanish publication Diario AS, Ancelotti is contemplating sticking with the team that secured the Champions League title in June, making only necessary adjustments due to recent departures.
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This would mean Eder Militao stepping in for Nacho Fernandez, who joined Al-Qadsiah this summer, and Luka Modric replacing Toni Kroos, who retired from active football.
It would also mean that star signing Mbappe will start on the bench, with Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes reprising their roles from the win over Borussia Dortmund.
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However, Ancelotti could also consider deploying Mbappe in place of Rodrygo or opting for a 4-3-3 formation, with both Brazilian forwards and their summer signing starting up front, while Modric drops to the bench.
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