For the very first time in its glorious history, Real Madrid fielded a base XI without Spaniards on Saturday night against Villarreal. A news that caused a stir in the Spanish press, as much as the defeat of the people of Madrid at the end of the evening.
Charles Ancelotti has indeed entrusted an eleven international to face this meeting: Courtois (Belgium), Military (Brazil), Rudiger (Germany), Alaba (Austria), Mendy (France), Modric (Croatia), Tchouameni (France), Kroos (Germany), Valverde (Uruguay), Benzema (France) and vinicius (Brazil).
Deprived of Dani Carvajal, injured and therefore unavailable, the Italian coach left six Spaniards on the bench: Luis López, Vallejo, Nacho, Asensio, Lucas Vazquez et Ceballos.
In the second period, Lucas Vazquez and Asensio came into play to still ensure an Iberian presence during the meeting.
Traditional reservoir of players for the ‘Roja’, Real Madrid had sent only two Spanish players to the Qatari World Cup this winter: Carvajal and Asensio. In 2021, during the Euro, Luis Enrique had not summoned any player from Merengues. Proof that Los Blancos are sorely lacking in top local players in their ranks.
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