Real Madrid will resume their campaign later tonight with a match against Real Sociedad at the Anoeta.

The reigning champions go into this match with a weakened midfield, with players such as Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni out with injuries.

Carlo Ancelotti will have to improvise as a result and the Italian may have to make an important decision in midfield.

With Luka Modric and Federico Valverde now established as regular starters in Real Madrid’s midfield, there is only room for one midfielder left.

The choice lies between the two creative midfielders Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz, which leaves Ancelotti with a major selection dilemma.

Both players are known for their technical skills and attacking qualities, but whether they can also function in a 4-3-3 midfield role is still a matter of debate.

Guler has gradually gained Ancelotti’s trust and despite his limited experience at the top level, he brings versatility and physical attributes suited to the central midfield role.

Ancelotti himself praised the young Turkish player’s performances with the national team, particularly his assist in the last match, his vision and his ability to operate between the lines – a key skill needed in Madrid’s midfield.

However, his lack of defensive experience in such a role could create vulnerabilities in Madrid’s pressing game.

Brahim Diaz, who also had a successful international spell, has more experience, but often operates higher up on the pitch.

He has shown his scoring prowess with crucial strikes against Gabon and Lesotho, but adapting to the intensity and physical demands of a midfield role in a 4-3-3 formation can be a challenge.

Ancelotti’s decision will depend on whether he wants to maintain the tactical consistency of the 4-3-3 system or switch to a more flexible system that plays to the strengths of Guler or Brahim.

It should be noted that there is another alternative in the form of Chema, who is attracting a lot of attention due to comparisons with Real Madrid’s main target Rodri.