Alvaro Arbeloa is grappling with a significant selection dilemma ahead of Sunday's high-stakes clash with Valencia. Real Madrid arrive at Mestalla missing three of their most influential stars: two frontline attackers and their primary creative engine in midfield. Vinicius Jr is ruled out through suspension, while both Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo are sidelined with injury.

The absences leave two coveted spots in the starting line-up up for grabs. While the duo of Vinicius and Bellingham are typically considered untouchable, the former Santos starlet (Rodrygo) is the perennial go-to option to fill any vacancy in the attacking trident. With the Englishman (Bellingham) unavailable, his advanced midfield role is expected to be contested by Tchouameni, Camavinga and Arda Guler.

The battle to support Kylian Mbappe from the flanks remains wide open. Brahim appears the frontrunner to occupy the left wing, and as a player naturally inclined to drift inside, the likes of Carreras or Alexander-Arnold—who are vying for the left-back berth—could be tasked with providing the necessary attacking width.

The former Liverpool man (Alexander-Arnold) is also a candidate for the right-wing slot, potentially operating in a more advanced role than Valverde. However, Mastantuono currently looks to be leading the race for that position, ahead of Gonzalo, who has featured there previously.

Regardless of the final XI, these three absences leave Arbeloa desperately short of goals and creativity for the trip to Mestalla. Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham, with six and five goals in Primera Division respectively, are the closest challengers to Mbappe, who leads the charts with a staggering 22. Furthermore, the pair have contributed five and three assists respectively, while Rodrygo has registered one goal and three assists this term.

J. Bellingham

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