Real Madrid has published the official list of players called up for Sunday's match at 4.15pm against Racing Santander. The main news is the return of Thibaut Courtois, who missed the Clásico due to flu. The Belgian goalkeeper is therefore available for the trip again, although coach José Mourinho will have to decide whether to restore his position or keep Andriy Lunin, who had a good performance in the match against Barcelona.
Federico Valverde, however, is not yet recovered. The Uruguayan still has the problem that caused his absence from the Clásico and, as already announced by the coach in the press conference, he will not be able to participate in the Santander match. Valverde's absence will also have repercussions on the right wing: according to sources, Dumfries could be inserted in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who may not be available.
Among the players on the way to full recovery there is also Éder Militão. The coach stated that the defender will be handled with caution by the staff before being played continuously from the first minute. This suggests that Militão could be inserted in reserve form or in a supporting role, depending on the team's needs.
The main dilemma for Mourinho concerns the goal. Courtois was available again, but Lunin showed his form during the Clásico. The coach will therefore have to evaluate whether to confirm Lunin as the starter or give the place to the Belgian. This decision will also influence the composition of the defense and the game strategy for the away match.
In summary, Real Madrid has a larger squad thanks to the return of Courtois, but will have to do without Valverde. The manager has several options for the right flank and goal, but the final choice will determine the shape of the team for the match against Racing Santander. The final result will depend on the decisions made in preparation and the form of the players when the match starts.