Here’s why Jose Mourinho is not planning major rotation against RB Leipzig despite El Clasico looming
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho plans to field a near full-strength starting lineup against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, despite an upcoming El Clasico match against Barcelona in four days. Mourinho emphasizes maintaining a perfect Champions League record over heavy player rotation.
Why it matters
Risking key players ahead of a major domestic rivalry clash highlights high-stakes managerial decision-making in European football.
Jose Mourinho is planning to make very few changes to his Real Madrid starting line-up against RB Leipzig in the Champions League.
Despite an El Clasico looming in less than four days' time, Mourinho is fixated on doing well in the game against the Bundesliga club.
According to Diario AS , the Portuguese manager wants to maintain Madrid's perfect Champions League record rather than rest several key players.
However, some tactical adjustments, particularly involving Fede Valverde and Arda Guler, could be on the cards.
Thibaut Courtois is unsurprisingly expected to retain his place in goal. Denzel Dumfries could return at right-back after being benched against Sevilla.
Ibrahima Konate and Antonio Rudiger are expected to form the defensive partnership, with Marc Cucurella completing the back four.
Denzel Dumfries could return to the starting XI against RB Leipzig. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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