Real Madrid haven’t had the best of starts to the year. After losing just twice over the entirety of 2016, they have already lost two games in 17 days this year. While one of the loss was in Copa Del Rey to Celta Vigo, hence it will not affect their standing in the League as such. But it is something which will certainly be making Zidane think. Although they did have an excellent year, towards the end, there were a number of draws in between which made sure they did not pull away from the chasing pack, despite Barcelona’s bumpy ride this season.
In fact, by the looks of it, it might be Sevilla who is likely to cause some fissures in the monotony of the 2-horse races with the sprinkling of Atletico Madrid which the La Liga had become. While Sevilla and Barcelona are 1 and 2 points behind Real Madrid respectively, Los Blancos have a match in hand which is likely to come in handy for them.
The main worry for Zidane will be Ronaldo’s form and his extreme levels of inconsistency which has been evident this season. While he has got the numbers, the distribution of those goals have been questionable and he needs to attain a level of consistency, especially after having taken up the striking role.
Malaga are in the 14th spot and will face a hurting Real Madrid which might complicate problems for them.
PREDICTED REAL MADRID XI VS MALAGA (4-3-3)
DEFENCE
Keylor Navas will be in goal and will look to keep a clean sheet which should ensure a win given their attacking riches at the other end. With Carvajal facing a month on the sidelines, it will be Danilo who will be tasked with deputising for the consistent Spaniard at right-back. In central defence, it will likely be Ramos and Varane and the duo will likely be more than enough to stop Malaga from scoring. Marcelo will be at left-back.
MIDFIELD
The midfield 3 is unlikely to change with Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Casemiro lining up once again. The trio was brilliant at the start of the season and will look to recapture that form and efficiency before being scattered apart due to injuries. With Casemiro shielding the back-four the other two will have all the freedom in the world.
ATTACK
Ronaldo might move back onto the flank with Benzema earning a recall in the lone striker’s role. Lucas Vasquez is likely to be on the right-flank.
