Real Madrid's Starting XI: Will Mourinho Leave Diomande and Bellingham on the Bench?

The projected starting XI for Real Madridto face Espanyol on matchday one of the new La Liga season has been revealed. According to a report published by Spain’s influential Marca , head coach Jose Mourinho could make several unexpected decisions in the season’s first official match.

Projected starting XI

The lineup selected by the Whites’ coach for matchday one is expected to be as follows:

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

• Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras

• Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Silva, Brahim Diaz, Arda Guler

• Forwards: Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe

Key details ahead of Real Madrid vs Espanyol

The €140 million transfer and Bellingham’s situation

According to the source, forward Yan Diomande, signed from RB Leipzig for €140 million as the most expensive transfer in the club’s history, is expected to start the match on the bench.

In addition, Jude Bellingham, viewed during preseason as an undisputed starter for the number 10 role, is also expected to remain on the bench against Espanyol. Mourinho reportedly plans to trust Brahim Diaz and Arda Guler in central midfield and on the wings.

Do you think Jose Mourinho’s decision to leave Bellingham and the €140 million Diomande on the bench while starting Guler and Diaz is justified?

Share your analysis in the comments and immediately pass this intriguing lineup news on to Real Madrid fans ahead of the start of La Liga!