Official: Real Madrid’s starting lineup against Rayo Vallecano | La Liga GW17

Real Madrid have an excellent chance to go top of the La Liga standings when they take on Rayo Vallecano in just under a few hours tonight.

Currently two points shy of leaders Barcelona, ​​the Merengues could take over top spot with a win tonight at the Estadio de Vallecas. And manager Carlo Ancelotti has announced the starting line-up he has entrusted with the responsibility of getting the job done.

In what is a big call, the Real Madrid manager has chosen to put superstar Vinicius Jr. on the bench, coming back from injury against Atalanta earlier in the week.

With no Kylian Mbappe, Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo form the frontline for the reigning champions, with Jude Bellingham operating behind them.

There is a start for teenage prodigy Arda Guler in midfield, partnering Federico Valverde and captaining Luka Modric, meaning Dani Ceballos misses out.

Ancelotti has again chosen to start Aurelien Tchouameni in central defense ahead of Raul Asencio, with the Frenchman partnering Antonio Rudiger.

Lucas Vazquez and Fran Garcia are the full-backs with Thibaut Courtois in goal.