How Real Madrid could line up against Atletico Madrid

La Liga champions Real Madrid could be without both David Alaba and Eder Militao for Sunday's Madrid derby away against rivals Atletico Madrid.

Alaba, who has been suffering with a hamstring problem, was an unused substitute in the 3-1 second-leg victory over Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday, while Militao picked up a knock in the same game and was forced off in the closing stages of extra time.

The potential absence of both players could see Nacho Fernandez start at centre-back alongside either Jesus Vallejo or Casemiro, the latter of whom operated at the heart of the defence in the 4-0 league win over Espanyol last weekend.

Eden Hazard remains sidelined for Los Blancos as he continues to recover from a leg injury, while Gareth Bale is suffering with a back problem and is doubtful for this weekend's trip to the Wanda Metropolitano.

Toni Kroos and Luka Modric are expected to start again in centre-midfield and either Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde could join them if Casemiro is to drop back into defence.

Star striker Karim Benzema is set to lead the line; the experienced Frenchman has scored three goals in his last four games against Atletico across all competitions, just one fewer than in his previous 33 meetings against them.

Benzema is expected to link up once again with Vinicius Junior in attack, while Wednesday's hero Rodrygo will be hoping to start on the right flank after netting a brace in stoppage time against Man City.

Real Madrid possible starting lineup: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Nacho, Mendy; Kroos, Casemiro, Modric; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr