Real Madrid’s probable starting XI against Elche…

The La Liga schedule is becoming increasingly demanding for Real Madrid and the rest of the league ahead of the international break. José Mourinho’s side have two away matches on the agenda this week, beginning with Tuesday night’s trip to Elche before a much tougher challenge against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano on Sunday.

With such an important derby approaching, Mourinho is expected to make several changes to his starting lineup against Elche in order to manage the workload of some of his key players.

Real Madrid's probable starting XI against Elche...

The derby already on Mourinho’s mind

The Portuguese coach could decide to rest Ibrahima Konaté and Bernardo Silva, two players who have been heavily involved in recent matches. Mourinho wants to keep his squad as fresh as possible before facing Atlético Madrid in what promises to be one of the most demanding fixtures of the season.

There could also be a change in attack. Arda Güler appears well positioned to return to the starting eleven, potentially replacing Yan Diomandé. The Turkish international offers creativity between the lines and could play an important role against an Elche side expected to defend deep for long periods.

Real Madrid’s injury situation remains largely unchanged. Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo and Éder Militão are all unavailable for the trip.

There was, however, some encouraging news regarding Militão on Monday. The Brazilian centre-back resumed individual training at Valdebebas, although he is not expected to return to competitive action until after the international break.

Mourinho should therefore continue with Antonio Rüdiger and Dean Huijsen in central defence, while Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella are expected to occupy the full-back positions.

Elche struggling for results

Elche, meanwhile, head into the match under considerable pressure after a difficult start to the campaign.

The Valencian side currently sit 19th in the La Liga table after failing to win any of their opening five matches. Three defeats and two draws have left them inside the relegation zone, increasing the pressure on Sebastián Beccacece Anselmi’s team.

Their task will not get any easier against Real Madrid.

Mourinho’s men have looked particularly solid defensively away from home and have conceded very few goals on their travels. Elche will therefore need to be extremely efficient with the limited chances they are likely to create.

Real Madrid will enter the match as clear favourites, but Mourinho is unlikely to underestimate an opponent fighting for points. Victory would allow Los Blancos to maintain their momentum before turning their attention to the highly anticipated Madrid derby.