Mon Jan 06 17:00:00 UTC 2025: **Real Madrid to Rotate Squad for Copa del Rey Clash with Deportivo Minera**
MADRID, Spain – Real Madrid will field a significantly altered starting XI for their Copa del Rey encounter against Deportivo Minera on Monday, confirmed manager Carlo Ancelotti. The match marks the first of two cup ties for the reigning Spanish, European, and World champions this week, with a Spanish Super Cup semi-final against RCD Mallorca following on Thursday.
Ancelotti confirmed that key players Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger will not be included in the squad travelling to Cartagena. While he remained tight-lipped on the potential inclusion of Vinicius Jr., following his controversial red card against Valencia, the manager emphasized his intention to give playing time to less-utilized squad members. Andriy Lunin will start in goal in place of Courtois, though Ancelotti did not specify if Lunin would be the designated cup keeper.
Despite the team’s rotation policy, Ancelotti stressed Real Madrid’s commitment to the Copa del Rey, dismissing any suggestion that the competition is not treated with the utmost seriousness. He highlighted the importance of the tournament and the club’s ambition to reach the final.
The anticipated starting line-up features several young players, including academy product Raul Asencio partnering with Diego Aguado in defense. This marks the senior debut for both. Further changes include Fran Garcia at left-back, Eduardo Camavinga as the lone pivot in midfield, and a front three of Endrick, Brahim Diaz, and Arda Guler.
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