Possible Valencia XI leaks with changes for Real Madrid

Valencia CF

Valencia are putting the finishing touches to their preparations to host Real Madrid this Saturday at 21:00 at Mestalla, in a match from LaLiga matchday 12. After the win against Elche, Javier Aguirre appears determined to strengthen his defensive set-up in an attempt to contain the visitors' attacking threat.

According to the drills carried out in recent training sessions, the Valencia coach is working on a back five, with Maffeo and Gayà operating as wing-backs and a back three made up of Arnau Martínez, César Tárrega and Pepelu. It is a plan that would allow the team to protect their box better and make use of the attacking runs of their wing-backs.

In midfield, Mayol, Guido Rodríguez and Javi Guerra look set to form the three-man engine room, while the main change would come up front. Umar Sadiq would return to the starting XI alongside Danjuma, after both played key roles in the win over Elche, with the Dutchman providing the assist and the Nigerian striker scoring.

Valencia's possible line-up against Real Madrid

Dimitrievski; Maffeo, Arnau Martínez, César Tárrega, Pepelu, Gayà; Mayol, Guido Rodríguez, Javi Guerra; Danjuma and Sadiq.

This possible 5-3-2 would be a bet on defensive solidity, without giving up Danjuma's pace or Sadiq's physical presence in attacking transitions.

Although there is still no official confirmation, Aguirre's tests put these eleven players in a strong position to start. A line-up that also offers important clues for fantasy managers, especially with Sadiq potentially starting and Pepelu's new defensive role.