Carlo Ancelotti will be looking for a return to winning ways for his Real Madrid team in La Liga against Real Betis this week after a draw against Levante last time out.

The Italian’s return to Madrid has generated four points from the opening two games, and he could be about to add some strength to the squad with Kylian Mbappe rumoured to be seeking a move from PSG.

For this weekend’s fixture, though, Mbappe remains in Paris, and Ancelotti will be focusing on a number of headaches within his current squad.

Dani Carvajal came off the bench last week and could make his first start of the season at right-back, with new signing David Alaba on the left and Eder Militao and Nacho in the centre.

There is a mini-injury crisis in midfield, with stars Toni Kroos and Luka Modric both ruled out along with Dani Ceballos. Isco is enjoying some early opportunities under Ancelotti and will likely start again, with Casemiro and Federico Valverde making up the midfield trio.

Gareth Bale has returned to Real after his loan spell at Tottenham last season, and he could continue on the right-wing after opening his account for the season against Levante.

The true star of that clash was Vinicius Jr, though. The Brazilian came off the bench to score an outstanding brace, helping Madrid come from behind twice to salvage a 3-3 draw.

That could warrant Vinicius a start ahead of Eden Hazard, with Karim Benzema leading the line and looking to add to his two goals on opening day.

Real fell two points short of rivals Atletico in the La Liga title race last season and are looking to return to the top this season, starting with a positive result this weekend.

Real Madrid starting XI versus Real Betis