This Wednesday at 9:00 PM, Real Madrid will play Arsenal in the return leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, and Carlo Ancelotti will have a difficult task as they attempt to overcome a 3-0 deficit.  The task is difficult, especially considering that Declan Rice and Mikel Merino’s incredible goals gave Arsenal a decisive win in the first leg.  But Real Madrid is without a doubt the squad that knows how to step up when things become difficult.  The historic Santiago Bernabéu, the site of some of the team’s most memorable European comebacks, will host this crucial game.

Aurelien Tchouaméni, who missed the first leg because of a string of yellow cards, will be welcomed back by Ancelotti with little over twenty-four hours to go before start.  Jude Bellingham, who is always dependable, will join him in the midfield, which will benefit from his return.  However, the third midfield spot is still up in the air.  Federico Valverde is expected to play this position, but it looks like the Uruguayan could replace Lucas Vázquez as a right-back.  Ancelotti’s plans depend heavily on Valverde’s versatility because he adds depth to the team, especially in a game that requires tactical adaptability.

Dani Ceballos, who returned from injury against Deportivo Alavés, is another candidate for the midfield spot.  But his lack of playing time makes him a less desirable choice for such a crucial match.  Eduardo Camavinga, who scored the game-winning goal that gave Real Madrid three points in their most recent La Liga match, is also suspended and cannot play.

 Luka Modrić is a clear contender to start for Real Madrid against Arsenal in light of this.  The Croatian maestro is a dependable option to guide the team’s approach because he is experienced in high-pressure scenarios.  Additionally, should fatigue set in during the second half, Ancelotti could count on Modrić to add a spark off the bench.

Valverde’s positional deployment is the main source of Ancelotti’s predicament.  Modrić is expected to assume a more advanced role if Valverde joins Tchouaméni and Bellingham in the midfield.  On the other hand, Modrić may create a potent trio with Tchouaméni and Bellingham if Valverde and Vázquez take over at right-back, improving Real Madrid’s midfield dominance.

 The defense will be led by Thibaut Courtois in goal, with Fran García, Asensio, Rüdiger, and Valverde providing support.  The well-known faces of Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Kylian Mbappé are anticipated to be part of the attacking trio, prepared to try Arsenal’s defense.