Wed Dec 04 20:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Ancelotti Makes Surprise Changes to Real Madrid Lineup for Tough Athletic Bilbao Clash

**Bilbao, Spain** – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has sprung a surprise team selection for their crucial La Liga match against Athletic Club at San Mamés. Despite a 2-0 victory over Getafe, Ancelotti is making changes to his starting eleven as Los Blancos aim to close the four-point gap on league leaders FC Barcelona. Importantly, Real Madrid holds a game in hand.

Ancelotti described the upcoming match as “demanding and complicated,” acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by Athletic Club in their notoriously hostile home stadium. He highlighted the team’s current good form and expressed confidence in their ability to perform well.

One notable change sees the return of Aurelien Tchouameni to the starting lineup alongside Dani Ceballos in midfield. Ancelotti praised Ceballos’ recent performances, emphasizing his composure, ball control, and contribution to the team. The coach also lauded the unexpected maturity and consistency of Raúl Asencio, who will start in defense.

The confirmed Real Madrid starting XI is: Courtois; Fran Garcia, Rudiger, Raúl Asencio, Lucas Vázquez; Tchouameni, Ceballos, Valverde; Mbappé, Rodrygo, Bellingham.

This high-stakes encounter will test Real Madrid’s title ambitions, with a victory crucial to maintaining pressure on Barcelona.

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