How Will Real Madrid’s Starting XI Look Next Season With Kylian Mbappe? Rodrygo Out? 2 Possible Scenarios Decoded

It’s a terrific time to be a Real Madrid supporter. Following their 15th Champions League, Los Blancos announced the signing of the most in-demand player, Kylian Mbappe. If beating Madrid was hard this season, it will only get harder next year. With 44 goals and 10 assists last campaign, Mbappe will provide the spark in attack the Spanish giants need. Yet, his name and stature mean that the PSG man will be a sure-shot starter. Unfortunately, this could come at a cost to other players, particularly Brazilian forward Rodrygo. What could be Carlo Ancelotti’s attacking trio for next season? Let’s find out below.

As it stands, the best position for Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid is the striker role. His preferred position, the left flank, has been cemented by Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian has been Madrid’s main man for the last few seasons and even scored in the UCL final. Hence, it’s unlikely that Ancelotti would remove Vinicius from the left wing. This means that Rodrygo can line up in the right flank. Luis Enrique has tried Mbappe as a #9 in certain games this season and the Frenchman knows the position. This formation though could result in a rewiring of the midfield.

Last season, Real Madrid played two attackers with Jude Bellingham in the #10 role. Reverting to a 3 man attack means that Bellingham would have to find a new position. There is no way Carlo Ancelotti would bench the La Liga POTY. With Tchouameni being the defensive midfielder, there would be 1 midfield spot up for grabs between Valverde, Modric, and Camavinga. Alternatively, Madrid can line up in last year’s formation with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr as the attackers. But, this is bound to cause a dilemma for the upper management.

Following the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, could Rodrygo be on the move?

If Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr play upfront with Bellingham in the #10, there is no space for Rodrygo in the XI. Although he has demonstrated his ability to be a super sub like the Manchester City game in 2022, the Brazilian is too good to be on the bench. Also, considering his hefty wages (over $12 million annually), Rodrygo as a substitute is not a financially viable option. Hence, there is a possibility that the Brazilian could be on the market soon.

Besides, the Brazilian is also unsure of his future. Recently he had said, “Yes. Well… anything can happen. I have a contract here, but I don’t know.” One of the clubs strongly linked with Rodrygo is Liverpool. The Reds had approached him back in 2017 which was turned down. Notably, Liverpool were also interested in Kylian Mbappe. With Mbappe gone, Rodrygo is a pretty damn good alternative. But is the Brazilian keen on a switch to Merseyside? This is one transfer to keep an eye on.