Real Madrid softened the blow from their heavy defeat to Atletico Madrid last Saturday by putting five of their own past Kairat Almaty in the Champions League on Tuesday. Since, the derby has been placed out of mind, although not quite in the fashion that manager Xabi Alonso may have hoped.
The headlines regarding Real Madrid have been dominated by supposed row between Fede Valverde and Alonso, with the Uruguayan appearing disillusioned on the touchline, and then publicly taking to social media to deny that he has refused to play at any point. The crux of the issue stems from Valverde voicing his reluctance to play at right-back, despite being the most obvious option there following injuries to Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Xabi Alonso to avoid further Valverde controversy
However that is where the story will end, at least if Alonso has anything to do with it. Cadena Cope report that the Real Madrid manager does not intend to use Valverde at right-back against Villarreal on Saturday night, as they attempt to calm the waters at the Bernabeu.
His intention is to use Raul Asencio there if he opts for a back four, although he could also use a back three. If that is the case, it will be Eder Militao that begins the game on the right of a trio.
Eder Militao to return against Villarreal
One positive for Alonso is the return of Militao. The Brazilian has won a starting spot alongside Dean Huijsen so far, but was forced to withdraw at half-time in the Madrid derby due to an ankle issue. Left out of the trip to Kazakhstan as a precaution, Marca report that Militao was back in training on Thursday and will be avuailable for their clash with the Yellow Submarine. Ahead of the international break, Alonso will no doubt send out his best XI to secure a result.
