Sat Sep 27 13:30:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Bellingham Starts in Madrid Derby, Replacing Mastantuono; Simeone Surprises with Sorloth**
Madrid, Spain – The Madrid derby is set to kick off with some surprising lineup choices. Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has opted to start Jude Bellingham, returning from injury, in place of the in-form Mastantuono, a decision that has sparked debate among fans. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone has raised eyebrows by including Alexander Sorloth in the starting eleven alongside Julián Álvarez, with Antoine Griezmann on the bench.
The confirmed Real Madrid lineup includes Courtois in goal, a defensive line of Carvajal, Militao, Huijsen, and Carreras, a midfield of Tchouameni, Valverde, and Bellingham, and an attacking trio of Güler, Vinicius, and Mbappé.
Atletico Madrid will field Oblak in goal, a defense of Llorente, Lenglet, Le Normand, and Hancko, a midfield of Koke, Barrios, Giuliano, and Nico González, and a forward pairing of Sorloth and Julián Alvarez.
Alonso’s decision to bring Bellingham back into the starting lineup is seen as a sign of the coach’s faith in the English midfielder’s ability to bring “energy, hierarchy, and leadership” to the team, while fans question sidelining Mastantuono, who has been in good form.
Simeone’s selection of Sorloth, who was recently suspended, is a gamble.
Off the field, tensions are high ahead of the match. As is customary, Atletico Madrid fans threw trash on the placque of Thibaut Courtois who has been the source of controversy since the 2022 Champions League.
With both teams looking to make a statement in the LaLiga title race, this derby promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with tactical intrigue and passionate play.
First Piper 