Real Madrid have won eight consecutive matches in all competitions since the Madrid derby and are three points off the top of La Liga. They have also won at Camp Nou.
League position and Camp Nou win
Real Madrid went top of La Liga on Saturday for one night before Barcelona won at Atleti.
Valverde back in defense
Federico Valverde was restored to his least favorite position in Real Madrid’s 4–1 win over Sevilla. He has started four of Real Madrid’s last six matches in defense. Valverde’s goal against Valencia on Saturday was his second goal in as many games. The Uruguayan told reporters last year, ahead of a Champions League match away at Kairat: “I wasn’t born to play as a full-back.”
Midfield combinations and attacking returns
After the Clásico, Mourinho said he would be looking for midfield combinations with complementary profiles rather than a double pivot consisting of two similarly minded players. Bernardo Silva has started both La Liga games since the Camp Nou match. Yan Diomande has contributed seven goal involvements, comprising four goals and three assists, in the last eight matches.
Vinícius completes suspension
Vinícius Jr will be available when Real Madrid return from the international break because all four matches of his La Liga suspension have been served.
