Pepe has reportedly recovered from the knock to his ribs in the final minutes of Tuesday’s match. However, he won’t play Saturday because of a yellow card suspension. Sergio should be available, after recuperating from a hamstring tear. AS’s Manu Sainz notes that Varane will likely link up with Ramos at the center of defense since Carvalho still isn’t match fit & because Albiol will play all 90 in the second leg of the Copa tie against Málaga. 

In midfield Khedira will return to the starting XI to partner with Alonso, while Lass & Coentrão feature as RB & LB, respectively. Sainz expects Callejón & Kaká to be relegated to the bench after last match’s showing, giving Özil another chance as a starter. Strikers Benzema & Higuaín will play alongside each other, with Cristiano there to round out the attack.