Real Madrid kickoff 2025 with a rearranged trip to Valencia on January 3 as they aim for top in the La Liga title race.
Carlo Ancelotti’s team will draw level with Barcelona on games played with this match, postponed following the devastating impact of Storm Dana in Valencia in October.
Real Madrid can edge ahead of league leaders Atletico Madrid — who also have a game in hand — with victory in Valencia as the hosts battle against relegation
MORE: All the latest soccer news | Real Madrid news
Valencia vs. Real Madrid lineups, starting 11, team news
This clash is new Valencia boss Carlos Corberan’s first game in charge after leaving West Bromwich Albion to replace Ruben Baraja at the Estadio Mestalla.
The hosts will be without midfielder Pepelu, who is suspended for one game, with Fran Perez facing a late fitness check.
Thierry Correia, Jose Luis Gaya and Mouctar Diakhaby remain sidelined for the hosts.
Valencia lineup (4-3-3, right to left): Marmasahvili (GK) — Folquier, Mosquera, Guillamon, Rioja — Guerra, Barrenechea — Canos, Almeida, Lopez — Duro.
Injured: Gaya, Correia, Diakhaby, Perez (doubtful).
Suspended: Pepelu
The main news for Real Madrid is the return of Vinicius Junior who missed their final game of 2024 due to suspension.
MORE: Vinicius Jr. goals, assists, trophies at Real Madrid
However, Ancelotti could rotate, ahead of incoming action in the Copa del Rey and a Spanish Super Cup trip to Saudi Arabia.
David Alaba has returned to light training, but Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao are out for the season, with Ferland Mendy back.
Real Madrid lineup (4-3-3, right to left): Courtois (GK) — Vazquez, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Mendy — Modric, Bellingham, Valverde — Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr.
Injured: Alaba, Carvajal, Militao.
Suspended: None
Valencia vs. Real Madrid live stream, TV channel
Here’s how to watch this La Liga match across selected areas of the world’s major regions:
