Kylian Mbappe has been included in Real Madrid’s starting lineup for their UEFA Super Cup clash against Atalanta. Having officially joined Madrid in July after a prolonged pursuit by the Spanish club, Mbappe had been sidelined due to an injury sustained during Euro 2024 and missed pre-season games. Consequently, this match in Warsaw marks his competitive debut and first appearance in a Real Madrid shirt, aside from his high-profile unveiling at the Bernabeu.
Mbappe is set to lead the attack, supported by Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, in a traditional 4-3-3 formation, contrasting last season’s narrower 4-3-1-2 setup used by Carlo Ancelotti. Jude Bellingham is expected to take a deeper role in midfield, alongside Aurelien Tchouameni as the defensive midfielder and Federico Valverde in the No. 8 position.
Ancelotti is likely to stick with the lineup from the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, with Eder Militao replacing the departed Nacho Fernandez, and potentially Luka Modric stepping in for the retired Toni Kroos, though Tchouameni has been preferred over Modric. Eduardo Camavinga’s recent knee injury might also influence final adjustments.
Endrick, another summer signing, could make his Madrid debut off the bench. Despite a challenging Copa America, the 18-year-old prodigy, who recently moved to Spain, is expected to have a role at some point during the match.
Real Madrid is aiming for their sixth European Super Cup title, matching the record currently held with Barcelona. Mbappe’s debut, while highly anticipated, may see him starting on the bench as nine of the Champions League final starters retain their positions.
Despite the adjustments, the team hopes Mbappe, along with new arrivals like Endrick, will significantly enhance their performance this season.
