Real Madrid faces a selection crisis against Celta Vigo with news of injuries.

Pressure is mounting on Real Madrid, which finds itself in a critical situation after two consecutive defeats in La Liga. This Friday, the Merengues will face Celta de Vigo in a desperate attempt to break the negative streak and return to the winning path that had seen them lead the championship before falling four points behind Barcelona. What began as a promising season is now turning into a genuine rollercoaster, with the Blancos scoring only one goal in the last 180 minutes of competition, highlighting that the team’s problems extend far beyond an unstable defense.

Injuries and suspensions are wreaking havoc on the squad, and the situation has worsened following the last defeat. Kylian Mbappé, the team’s top scorer, has joined the list of absentees due to a persistent knee injury, followed by Jude Bellingham and Éder Militão, both also unavailable. The scenario became even more bleak when Rodrygo, a key player in the attack, suffered a serious knee injury that will sideline him not only for the season but also for the World Cup. In addition to him, other players such as Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono have also been handed suspensions, making Álvaro Arbeloa’s task even more complicated.

“We are facing a real selection crisis. It’s difficult, but we have to adapt and find solutions,” said Arbeloa, reflecting the pressure that weighs on his shoulders. Among the absentees are Dani Ceballos and David Alaba, raising the number of unavailable players to seven. The coach is not only concerned about the absence of athletes but also about the physical condition of Raúl Asencio and Eduardo Camavinga, who are dealing with health issues. If both manage to recover in time, they could be crucial in filling the gaps left by the crisis affecting the Spanish capital.

In attack, Arbeloa will have to rely on Vinícius Júnior and Gonzalo García, who are currently the only forwards available. The expected formation for this clash is a 4-4-2, a strategy that reflects the need to strengthen the midfield and defense.

**Injuries and crucial absences:**

Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Éder Militão, Dean Huijsen, Dani Ceballos, Raúl Asencio, Franco Mastantuono, Álvaro Carreras, David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga.

**Expected formation:** 4-4-2

**The expected lineup of the Real Madrid against Celta de Vigo (4-4-2):**

**GK:** Thibaut Courtois — With an improvised defense in front of him, Courtois will need to shine and be the savior of the team in this crucial match.

**RB:** Trent Alexander-Arnold — The England international is determined to redeem himself after a disappointing performance in the last match.

**CB:** Raúl Asencio — Despite his recent neck injury, Asencio may be forced to return to the starting lineup due to a lack of options.

**CB:** Antonio Rüdiger — With his 170th appearance for the Real Madrid on the horizon, Rüdiger hopes to celebrate in style with a victory.

**LB:** Fran García — With Carreras suspended, García may have the opportunity to start the game after a long period without minutes.

**RM:** Federico Valverde — After a performance below expectations, Valverde is looking to regain the form he previously displayed.

**CM:** Arda Güler — With a lack of alternatives, Güler is expected to remain in the team, despite not having made a significant impact in recent matches.

**CM:** Aurélien Tchouaméni — If not needed as an emergency defender, Tchouaméni will return to his place in midfield, acting as a shield for the vulnerable defense.

**LM:** Eduardo Camavinga — The expectation is that Camavinga will return in time, bringing valuable strength to the midfield.

The challenges that Real Madrid faces are immense, but the need for a quick and effective response has never been more urgent. The clash with Celta de Vigo will be a litmus test for the team, which urgently needs to find its way back to victory if it wants to keep its hopes of winning La Liga alive.