Real Madrid host Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday evening as Carlo Ancelotti's side look to extend their four point lead at the top of La Liga.

Los Blancos have begun the 2021/22 season in spectacular style, winning 10 and losing just one of their opening 14 games to set the standard for the rest of the division.

Athletic Bilbao are the next visitors to the Santiago Bernabeu, and although they are without a league win since 23 October, Real Madrid will still be wary of the threat they possess.

Ancelotti once again won't be able to call upon Gareth Bale or Eden Hazard as the pair are both injured, and with Rodrygo also suffering problems of his own, Los Blancos have been hamstrung in forward areas.

So, Vinicius Junior will be required to continue his early season form, while Marco Asensio could be set for another start.

Dani Ceballos is also out, although the former Arsenal man was unlikely to break into the starting XI anyway.

Potential Real Madrid XI vs Athletic Bilbao

Thibaut Courtois will continue his duties in goal, with the regular back four of: Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy patrolling in front of him.

Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde were both crucial off the bench against Sevilla, and Ancelotti may opt to utilise them from the start. Luka Modric could be rested, with Valverde coming in, although it's unlikely that both he and Camavinga will start.

Asensio and Vinicius will play either side of Karim Benzema.