Real Madrid have named a strong starting XI for their Champions League meeting with AEK de Atenas, with Vinícius Júnior back in the side and Fede Valverde left out of the lineup. For a team sitting on nine points in fifth place in the league-phase standings, it is a selection that underlines both ambition and rotation on a Wednesday night when the margins remain tight.
The announcement came on November 4, 2026, ahead of the fourth jornada of the Champions League league phase. Real Madrid confirmed their team with a brief club post, making clear that this is a match they view as important in the race near the top of the table, especially with Paris Saint-Germain setting the pace above them.
Vinícius Júnior’s return is the headline move. He had already featured in the European match against Leipzig in the third round, but this is still a timely boost after missing LaLiga matches because of a domestic suspension. Éder Militão is also back after a long injury absence, adding another significant layer to the selection.
Vinícius Júnior back, Valverde out
The key point is simple: Real Madrid have reintroduced one of their most dangerous attackers while choosing not to start one of their most reliable midfield figures. That balance suggests José Mourinho is managing the squad with one eye on both the immediate result and the wider workload across a busy stretch.
For Madrid, the return of Vinícius Júnior matters because he changes the rhythm of the attack in a way few players can. His presence gives the side a direct threat, and in a European fixture like this, that can force AEK de Atenas to defend deeper and for longer.
Valverde’s omission is just as notable. It does not change his importance to the team, but it does show that this is a night when Madrid are prepared to alter the shape of their midfield and trust the depth in the squad.
Why this match matters in the league phase
Real Madrid go into the game on nine points and in fifth place, which means the standings are still very much live. A win would not just strengthen their position; it could keep them in contention for the top of the table against Paris Saint-Germain.
That is why this lineup announcement matters beyond the individual names. It is not simply about who starts against AEK de Atenas. It is about how Real Madrid manage the league phase, how they use returning players, and whether they can turn another European night into a step forward in the standings.
The club’s message was direct: “📋✅ ¡Nuestro XI inicial!🆚 @AEK_FC_OFFICIAL”. The selection behind it says just as much, with Vinícius Júnior restored, Éder Militão back in the picture, and Fede Valverde left to watch this one from the outside at the start.
