Venue: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid
Date: 13/02/2016
Kick-off: 03:00 PM GMT / 10:00 AM EST
Goalkeeper
While Luka Modric earned all the plaudits for Real Madrid’s hard fought 2-1 victory over Granada last weekend, it would be unfair not to acknowledge the role of goalkeeper Keylor Navas in the triumph.
The Costa Rican made numerous key saves throughout the course of the match and he will surely have to play a big role once again if Madrid are to claim a victory against Athletic this weekend.
Defence
Real Madrid have been rocked by the news that Marcelo has dislocated his shoulder and the Brazilian is certain to miss the clash against Athletic this weekend as a result.
Alvaro Arbeloa looks the most likely candidate to replace Marcelo in the starting lineup while Nacho could also potentially do a job at left back.
In central defence, the duo of Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos are set to continue their impressive partnership, while Dani Carvajal will also retain his place in the starting lineup at right back as Danilo remains an injury doubt for the clash.
Midfield
Luka Modric was the hero for Madrid in their victory over Granada and the Croatian maestro will undoubtedly continue in the lineup alongside the equally impressive Toni Kroos.
Isco has started all of the matches Zidane has been in charge of Madrid and there is no reason why the Spanish international will be dropped this weekend. The likes of Mateo Kovacic and Casimero will have to do with a place on the bench once again.
Attack
Gareth Bale has still not recovered from his injury after going through a relapse and the Welshman is now in danger of missing the Champions League encounter against Roma as well.
In the absence of Bale, James Rodriguez will be continuing in the starting lineup while Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema complete the attacking trio for Madrid.
Real Madrid Probable Lineup: Navas, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Daniel Carvajal, R. Varane, L. Modrić, T. Kroos, Rodríguez , Isco, Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema
