Real Madrid's possible lineup against Valencia in La Liga EA Sports

Mourinho plans to field Real Madrid's strongest XI at Valencia on Sunday, rotating in key players rested during the midweek Champions League win over AEK Athens.

José Mourinho has expressed respect for Valencia ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash at Mestalla, calling it one of the most difficult matches of the season. The Real Madrid manager is wary of the quick turnaround after Wednesday's Champions League fixture against AEK Athens, but plans to deploy his best available team.

Mourinho rested four key players in Greece — Konaté, Huijsen, Tchouameni and Güler — and all are expected to return to the starting lineup. Courtois will replace Lunin in goal after recovering from illness. The predicted XI sees Valverde return to right-back and Diomande shift to left-back, with Bellingham, Bernardo Silva and Tchouameni forming the midfield. Mbappé leads the attack after scoring eight goals in his last six appearances.

The timing is significant: Barcelona and Atlético Madrid face each other on the same day, offering Real Madrid an opportunity to gain ground if either rival drops points.