Build up to the Madrid derby continues this morning and the main issue is the defensive problems facing Real Madrid.
Regular right-back Daniel Carvajal injured his hamstring while on international duty and is likely to miss the match. Alvaro Arbeloa would the obvious choice to step in, but AS is reporting Carlo Ancelotti is considering playing Sergio Ramos there and Pepe and Raphael Varane in the middle.
Ramos has only played at right-back once under Ancelotti, in the 2-2 draw with Juventus in Turin, but the Italian boss sees Madrid vice-captain as a better option to deal with the aggressive nature of Atletico’s play, and as the taller of the two, better at dealing with crosses.
Elsewhere, Marca has quotes from Carlo Ancelotti talking about the season ahead. He and club president Florentino Perez have come under fire for the sales of Xabi Alonso and Angel di Maria. Los Blancos have yet to find top gear yet this season, but the Italian reassured fans he will find the right solution again this year, just like he did last season as he guided Los Blancos to success in the Champions League and Copa del Rey.
Finally, AS is critical of Brazil coach Dunga, who called Marcelo up for the friendlies against Colombia in Miami and Ecuador in New Jersey. The left-back traveled a total of 14,000km and only arrived back in Madrid on Wednesday evening and didn’t play a single minute in either match.
