At 22:15 Beijing time on the evening of September 13, the fourth round of the new La Liga season will feature a highly anticipated clash, as Spanish giants Real Madrid travel to face the formidable Real Sociedad.
Since the start of the new season, Real Madrid has quickly found their rhythm and been playing smoothly. After the first three rounds of La Liga, they have recorded three wins, accumulating 9 points, scoring 6 goals and conceding just 1. Both their attack and defense are gradually reaching top form. Currently, they top the La Liga table on goal difference, ahead of Athletic Bilbao. However, considering the relative strength of their first three opponents, Madrid cannot afford to be complacent; the new season has only just begun.
Their opponent, Real Sociedad, has had a sluggish start to the season. After three rounds, they have only managed two draws and one loss, totaling 2 points, and currently sit 16th in the league. In terms of overall strength and current form, Real Madrid clearly dominates Real Sociedad. Therefore, as long as Madrid performs to their level, securing all three points should not be an issue. Nevertheless, coach Xabi Alonso will not take the match lightly and is expected to field his strongest lineup to ensure victory.
In goal, there is no surprise: first-choice keeper Thibaut Courtois will continue to guard the Madrid goal. In defense, Alonso is expected to stick with his usual four-man backline. The likely starting defenders are Arnold, Militao, Heisen, and Alvaro Carreras. Militao and Heisen will form the center-back pairing, while Carreras and Arnold will operate as full-backs on the left and right flanks, respectively.
In midfield, there is no doubt that the French prodigy Tchouaméni will anchor the defensive midfield, responsible for interceptions and breaking up opposition attacks. Partnering him in the double pivot will be Uruguayan star Valverde. Ahead of them, the young midfield prodigy Guiller is expected to orchestrate Real Madrid’s attack from the front, while two key wingers—Brahim Díaz and Rodrigo—will provide support on either side. Leading the line upfront will naturally be the French superstar Mbappé, with Bellingham expected to start on the bench.
In summary, Real Madrid’s expected starting XI against Real Sociedad is:
Courtois; Arnold, Militao, Heisen, Alvaro Carreras; Tchouaméni, Valverde; Rodrigo, Guiller, Brahim Díaz; Mbappé.
