As the Santiago Bernabeu prepares for the first leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League Quarter-Finals, the spotlight is firmly on the starting lineups of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

Managers Alvaro Arbeloa and Vincent Kompany face significant selection decisions that will define the tactical narrative of the match. With several key players returning from minor knocks and others ruled out entirely, the depth of both squads will be tested in what is expected to be a fast-paced, physical encounter under the lights in Madrid.

Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Team News

Real Madrid (RMA)

Real Madrid’s lineup is bolstered by the timely return of Vinicius Junior, who missed the weekend domestic fixture as a precaution. Arbeloa is expected to deploy a standard 4-3-3 formation to maximize the width provided by his wingers. In goal, Lunin continues his extended run in the absence of Courtois. The defensive line will feature the veteran experience of Dani Carvajal and Huijsen , with Antonio Rudiger and Alexander-Arnold forming a formidable central partnership tasked with marking Harry Kane. The most significant talking point is the midfield, where the young prodigy Thiago Pitarch is expected to start alongside Valverde and Tchouameni, potentially leaving Jude Bellingham as a high-impact substitute as he returns from a hamstring strain.

Bayern Munich (BAY)

Bayern Munich, under Vincent Kompany, is likely to stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that has served them well in both the Bundesliga and Europe this season. Manuel Neuer will lead the side from the back, supported by a central defensive duo of Upamecano and Tah. The full-back positions will be occupied by Joshua Kimmich and Stanisic, both of whom will be encouraged to join the attack. The double-pivot of Pavlovic and Goretzka will provide the screen for the defense, while the creative trio of Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, and the sensational Luis Diaz will support Harry Kane. Kane’s fitness has been confirmed, and his role as the “false nine” will be crucial in dragging Madrid’s defenders out of position.

Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich Tactical Setup

The tactical battle on the flanks will be particularly fascinating. Stanisic vs. Federico Valverde and old teammates at Liverpool Alexander-Arnold vs Luis Diaz are matchups that could decide the game. Bayern will aim to overload Madrid’s right side to create crossing opportunities for Harry Kane. The bench depth for both sides is impressive; Real Madrid can call upon Brahim Diaz to change the game’s tempo, while Bayern has the likes of Konrad Laimer to provide fresh legs in the second half.

RMA vs BAY Predicted Starting XI

Real Madrid: Lunin (GK); Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, Thiago Pitarch; Guler, Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe.

Bayern Munich: Neuer (GK); Laimer, Tah, Upamecano, Stanisic; Kimmich, Pavlovic; Michael Olise, Luis Diaz; Gnabry; Harry Kane.