Mourinho has already chosen his defense to face Atlético.

After their convincing victory over Rayo Vallecano, Real Madrid are now entering a crucial stretch of La Liga fixtures. José Mourinho already appears to have made several important decisions ahead of the most anticipated match of the week: the Madrid derby against Atlético at the Metropolitano.

Real Madrid will have very little time to recover. After securing an impressive 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, José Mourinho’s men travel to face Elche on Tuesday evening at 9:30 p.m. before taking on Atlético Madrid on Sunday at 4:15 p.m. at the Metropolitano.

It is a demanding schedule for Los Blancos, and Mourinho is already planning for both matches at the same time. While Tuesday’s trip to Elche remains important in the title race, the Portuguese coach is fully aware that the derby will require his strongest possible lineup.

Trent and Carreras expected to start on the bench

Mourinho already seems to have a clear idea of the defensive unit he wants to field against Atlético Madrid.

At right-back, Denzel Dumfries is expected to retain his place ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Dutch international has recently offered Mourinho greater defensive security and has gradually established himself as the preferred option in the position.

Against an Atlético side traditionally dangerous in transitions and physical duels, Dumfries’ athleticism, defensive commitment and ability to cover large spaces could prove particularly valuable. Trent remains an important attacking weapon, but Mourinho currently appears to prioritize defensive balance in the biggest matches.

On the opposite flank, Marc Cucurella continues to hold the advantage over Álvaro Carreras. Carreras produced an excellent performance against Rayo Vallecano and certainly strengthened his case for more playing time, but it may not be enough to earn him a starting spot in the derby.

For now, Mourinho seems to trust Cucurella’s defensive qualities, intensity and experience in high-pressure matches. The former Chelsea defender therefore remains the favourite to start on the left side at the Metropolitano.

In central defence, Ibrahima Konaté and Dean Huijsen are expected to form Mourinho’s preferred partnership.

Antonio Rüdiger received valuable minutes against Rayo Vallecano, but Huijsen should return to the starting XI, possibly as early as Tuesday against Elche. Mourinho appears particularly satisfied with the balance provided by the Konaté-Huijsen pairing, combining physical strength, pace and composure in possession.

🚨 José Mourinho: "Most difficult part about having to play 3 games in a week?

Having 6 press conferences in a week.

Really, I'm tired of you and you're tired of me.

You don't even have questions left to ask me." pic.twitter.com/eXfComCZDZ

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 14, 2026

Rotations expected against Elche

Tuesday’s match should give Mourinho an opportunity to rotate his squad and protect some of his key players.

With the Madrid derby taking place only a few days later, several regular starters could either begin on the bench or see their minutes carefully managed against Elche. Konaté, in particular, is one of the players whose workload could be monitored closely.

Mourinho’s objective is clear: collect three points against Elche while ensuring that his most important players arrive at the Metropolitano in peak physical condition.

Real Madrid have entered one of the most demanding weeks of their early season. After the emphatic win over Rayo, attention is already turning towards Atlético Madrid — and Mourinho appears to have his defensive plan almost completely settled.