Real Madrid vs Leganes: 3 things to watch

After the successful conquest of Munich, Real Madrid turn their attention towards (a relatively inconsequential) league game against Leganes at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Los Blancos are currently third in the standings with 68 points from 34 games. But the dawn of Monday next week would see the dust settling on the campaign as the Blaugrana need just a point from the next match to seal the league.

This is nothing more than a distraction for Zinedine Zidane and co., who have their sights set on the Champions League - their last chance saloon. And even if it wouldn't have any bearings on the title race, there are some issues to look forward to.

Here are three things to watch from Real Madrid vs Leganes

#1 Zidane to ring in the changes again

Zidane has to set his team out carefully

The French gaffer is set to rotate his team again, resting several stars that started in Munich keeping the return leg at home next week in mind. Cristiano Ronaldo is the foremost name to miss out, while the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and Marcelo are set to join him on the sidelines too.

Dani Carvajal sustained hamstring injury in the midweek clash, aligning alongside Isco at the treatment table. And even though Nacho is back in training, will go through a late fitness test ahead of kick-off. That leaves Achraf Hakimi as the lone choice at the right-back.

Jesus Vallejo and Theo Hernandez will replace Sergio Ramos and Marcelo respectively. However, questions remain whether both of Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale would be given a green signal. The French target man came off the bench in the first-leg of the semi-finals and is certain to start in the return. But Bale, who's fallen totally out of favour, is seen starting in games like these.

A 4-2-3-1 formation would see him leading the line, but will be joined by Benzema in a 4-4-2.

#2 Bale has a point to prove

Gareth Bale's future at Madrid appears very bleak

With Gareth Bale in contention to start, this might be one of those rare opportunities to shine and clear the hazy clouds building over his future in the Spanish capital.

The Welshman has been consistently ignored by Zidane - he has started just one knock-out tie in the Champions League and was withdrawn after 45 minutes in that match. In La Liga, he’s started only 16 games thus far, although he missed 10 on the trot from matchday 6 to 16.

He’s reduced to more of a utility player who plays in games like these and when the regulars need a rest. Such grim is his status these days. Some of this can be apportioned to the recurring injuries, but Bale has done the bare minimum to impress when on the field too.

Now here’s a slim chance to turn the fortunes around. Whether he starts on his preferred left-wing or operates as one of the forwards in the 4-4-2, Bale has only one objective going into the match. And that’s to leave a lasting impression. A couple of goals here might help him warrant a start for the remainder of the season. And also secure his Madrid future.

#3 Real Madrid have to right a few wrongs

Leganes sent shockwaves when they beat Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in the Copa Del Rey

Leganes inflicted perhaps the most damaging defeat of Real Madrid’s season in January. The hosts were in for a stroll in the park, but instead, were made to walk on fire. Javier Eraso and Gabriel Pires combined to script one of the most unlikely upsets in the competition’s recent memory.

Even if the pain of the defeat has long healed, the scars are very much there. And the Merengues would be aiming for a shot at redemption even if it matters little at this juncture of the season.

That game was a harsh reality check for Zidane and co., who let complacency creep in and paid a hefty price for it. But now when the stakes are much lower, it’s only pride to fight for. And the hosts must be pulling no punches in the quest for all three points.

It will not completely change the bitter memories of old, but with a big victory here, Real Madrid can at least pacify it.