Real Madrid host Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu this evening in game most of the players will be keen to be over so they can put this season behind them.
Back in the autumn, Los Blancos went on a 22-game winning run in all competitions and seemed to be steamrolling their way towards the title and perhaps become the first team to defend the Champions League trophy.
A poor start at the the turn of the year allowed Barcelona to take control of the title race and they secured La Liga last weekend. After narrow wins over Schalke an Atletico de Madrid, Real eventually came unstuck at the semi-final stage in the Champions League against Juventus.
Los Blancos will finish second and Getafe are five points clear of the relegation zone so this game today will have little more than an exhibition feel about it. It is expected to be Carlo Ancelotti’s last in charge of Los Blancos, although he won’t be on the touchline as he serves the second of his two-game touchline ban.
In terms of team news, Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric were already ruled out. They are joined on the sidelines by Karim Benzema, allowing Javier Hernandez a chance to play one last time prior to heading back to parent club Manchester United. Iker Casillas should start in goal, and some expect it to be his final appearance in a Real Madrid shirt. If it is, let’s hope he gets a wonderful reception.
Possible lineups
Real Madrid:
Casillas; Carvajal, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo; James, Kroos, Isco; Ronaldo, Bale, Hernandez
Getafe:
Guaita; Alexis, Naldo, Valero, Carlos Vigaray, Escudero; Lacen, Rodriguez; Hinestroza, Castro, Leon; Diawara
