Official: Real Madrid starting lineup against Rayo Vallecano | La Liga GW17 | OneFootball

Real Madrid have an excellent chance to go to the top of the La Liga standings as they take on Rayo Vallecano in a little under a couple hours tonight.

Currently two points shy of leaders Barcelona, the Merengues could take over the top spot with a win tonight at Estadio de Vallecas. And manager Carlo Ancelotti has announced the starting lineup that he has entrusted with the responsibility of getting the job done.

In what is a huge call, the Real Madrid boss has opted to bench superstar Vinicius Jr., who made his return from injury against Atalanta earlier this week.

With no Kylian Mbappe either, Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo form the frontline for the reigning champions, with Jude Bellingham operating behind them.

There is a start for teenage prodigy Arda Guler in midfield, where he pairs up with Federico Valverde and captain Luka Modric, meaning Dani Ceballos misses out.

Ancelotti has once again opted to start Aurelien Tchouameni at centre-back ahead of Raul Asencio, with the Frenchman partnering Antonio Rudiger.

Lucas Vazquez and Fran Garcia are the full-backs with Thibaut Courtois in goal.