On Tuesday night, Real Madrid will host Monaco at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, aiming for a strong result in the UEFA Champions League. After a convincing 2-0 victory over Levante, Los Blancos are keen to maintain their momentum midweek.
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa is likely to go with a 4-3-3 formation, making a few adjustments to his starting lineup. We may see Fran Garcia and Arda Guler come in to start and have an opportunity to showcase their talents.
Advertisement
Predicted 4-3-3 Lineup for Real Madrid Against Monaco
Defense
Thibaut Courtois will return as goalkeeper for Los Blancos after keeping a clean sheet in his previous match. Raul Asencio and Dean Huijsen will partner at the center of the Real Madrid defense, aiming to maintain a strong defensive presence throughout the match.
Federico Valverde will take up the right-back position, while Fran Garcia will look to deliver a solid performance as the left-back. Both players will need to balance their defensive duties with opportunities to support the attack.
David Alaba will be positioned on the bench, ready to provide defensive support if needed.
Advertisement
MADRID, SPAIN – JANUARY 17: Federico Valverde of Real Madrid observes during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Levante UD at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on January 17, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Midfield
The midfield trio of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni will be crucial for Arbeloa’s plans. They must work together to effectively distribute the ball and generate clear scoring opportunities for Los Blancos.
Dani Ceballos will likely start on the bench, ready to make an impact in the second half if called upon.
Advertisement
Attack
On the attacking front, Vinicius Junior will look to make his mark on the left wing, while Arda Guler aims to create chances from the right. Both players will seek to exploit spaces behind the Monaco defense.
Kylian Mbappe is set to lead Real Madrid’s attack, where he will need to find ways to be a constant threat inside the Monaco penalty area.
Gonzalo Garcia will also be on the bench, prepared to step in and potentially change the game as needed in the later stages if a goal is required.