How Real Madrid could line up against Real Betis

Real Madrid could welcome Luka Modric back into their starting side for Saturday's La Liga clash with Real Betis.

The experienced midfielder has missed his team's last two matches against Napoli and Granada due to a muscular issue, but the Croatian has been back in training this week, and he is expected to return to the XI for the clash in Seville this weekend.

Kepa Arrizabalaga could also be back between the sticks; the on-loan Chelsea goalkeeper was an unused substitute against Granada last time out after recovering from a muscular problem, and he is now expected to replace Andriy Lunin in the team.

Dani Carvajal is set to be out until 2024 with a calf problem, meaning that Lucas Vazquez is likely to feature as the right-back this weekend.

Meanwhile, Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois remain unavailable for selection through injury.

Modric's expected return could see Brahim Diaz move into the front two with Rodrygo, which would allow Jude Bellingham to move back into the number 10 position.

Joselu is therefore likely to miss out on a spot in the XI, while it will again be Ferland Mendy at left-back despite the recent speculation surrounding the Frenchman's future.

Real Madrid possible starting lineup: Kepa; Vazquez, Rudiger, Alaba, Mendy; Valverde, Kroos, Modric; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Diaz