The injury problems plaguing Real Madrid have been exacerbated by the recent thigh injury sustained by prized signing Kylian Mbappe.

The Frenchman had taken a hit from Alaves. Mbappe’s withdrawal was only a precaution, and he will be available for the next match against Atletico Madrid, according to reports that surfaced soon after the game.

The three-week absence of Mbappe due to a thigh injury, as confirmed by Real Madrid, might significantly impact Carlo Ancelotti’s strategy.

Starting for Luka Modric at Atetico Madrid

To that aim, additional details regarding Ancelotti’s preparation for the Madrid derby in the wake of Mbappe’s injury have been provided by a new report from The Athletic.

According to the report, Luka Modric might start this weekend against Atletico Madrid for Ancelotti, most likely in a four-man midfield configuration.

This suggests that Real Madrid might line up in a 4-4-2 configuration to take on Atletico Madrid, with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo expected to lead the assault.

The last time Real Madrid played Atleti, their midfield, which included Modric and Toni Kroos, was absolutely overwhelmed. However, Ancelotti will be hoping for a better outcome this time.

Real Madrid feels that Modric is in excellent physical shape and can play the whole ninety minutes despite concerns about his age, especially considering that the veteran has frequently taken vacations in between games.

Thus, at least strategically, Modric continues to be the choice to start in midfield and take the place of the injured Mbappe.

If Ancelotti’s plans fail, he has plenty of options to choose from. Endrick, for example, could play in a 4-3-3, and Arda Guler may make an intriguing backup midfield option.