Madrid, Jan 4 (EFE).- Gonzalo García is Xabi Alonso’s choice to replace Kylian Mbappé in Real Madrid’s first match of 2026, against Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabéu, while Brazilian winger Antony returns directly to the visitors’ starting lineup.
With Mbappé sidelined by a knee sprain, Alonso has opted for a front three featuring Rodrygo Goes and Vinícius Júnior on the wings, with Gonzalo leading the attack. The Madrid coach is seeking to offset the Frenchman’s absence with mobility and width rather than a like-for-like replacement.
Fede Valverde returns after missing Madrid’s final game of 2025 due to flu and starts at right-back, despite Dani Carvajal being included in the squad following a two-month layoff. On the left, Álvaro Carreras comes back into the XI after serving a two-match suspension.
In defense, the late withdrawal of Dean Huijsen because of a physical issue gives continuity to Raúl Asencio, who shifts back into central defense after featuring as a full-back against Sevilla.
Real Madrid will start with: Courtois; Fede Valverde, Raúl Asencio, Rüdiger, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinícius and Gonzalo.
For Betis, coach Manuel Pellegrini confirms the recovery of Antony, who starts on the right flank of an attack led by Colombian striker Cucho Hernández. Hernández closed 2025 in strong form, registering a goal and an assist in Betis’ final match of the year.
Betis’ starting XI is: Álvaro Valles; Ángel Ortiz, Bartra, Natan, Ricardo; Deossa, Marc Roca; Antony, Fornals, Aitor Ruibal; and Cucho Hernández. EFE.
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