In the upcoming match, Real Madrid faces an uphill challenge both in terms of team morale and player availability, while Mallorca rides a wave of optimism. Coach Jagoba Arrasate’s squad, despite winning just four of their last 18 matches, is positioned near the European qualification spots. They entered the match day in ninth place, a position that, if sustained, would be their best finish in 14 years, showcasing the promise of a new project that required only a modest investment of 2.3 million euros following a significant player sale for 14 million euros.
Conversely, Real Madrid is grappling with disappointment as they seek to salvage their season. They aim to prevent Barcelona from clinching the title easily, support Kylian Mbappé as he vies for the top scorer award, and bid a dignified farewell to Carlo Ancelotti, who has been less than clear about his departure from the club. To complicate matters, Madrid is decimated with injuries, boasting only ten outfield players available, including players from the youth academy.
The team has been affected by long-term injuries to six players, including Carvajal and Militao, with further recent injuries to Lucas Vázquez, Vinicius, and Lunin, who all sustained issues in their previous matches or during training. Additionally, Tchouameni is unavailable due to suspension. Ancelotti may resort to fielding up to two academy players while ensuring that at least seven first-team players are on the pitch.
On the other hand, Mallorca is focused on consolidating their position in the top ten of La Liga, aiming for stability. President Andy Kohlberg praised Arrasate for successfully building on the solid foundation left by former coach Javier Aguirre without drastic changes. Although the team has struggled to score—ranking among the bottom three in goals scored—their defensive resilience has served them well.
For today’s match, the Mallorca squad is expected to adopt a defensive five-man setup to protect goalkeeper Leo Román. Key players Maffeo and Raíllo have had contentious encounters with Vinicius in previous games but will need to rise to the occasion without their injured counterparts. Vedat Muriqi remains a central figure in the attack, recently returning to start after injury and already contributing significantly to the team’s goal tally.
Today’s match marks the third clash of the season between these two teams, following a draw earlier in the league and a comfortable Supercopa semifinal victory for Madrid. The last time Mallorca triumphed at the Santiago Bernabéu was back in 2009, a stark reminder that history can be compelling, particularly as Madrid seeks to avoid slipping further in form.
Both teams have much at stake today, with Mallorca looking to solidify its position and Madrid striving to end the season on a high note despite the challenges faced. Fans can expect a riveting contest at the Bernabéu as both sides aim to assert their respective ambitions.