Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid - Combined XI of the Madrid derby | La Liga 2021-22

Real Madrid will host Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday in a blockbuster Madrid derby in La Liga.

Los Blancos are currently ten points ahead of the holders at the top of the league table, and on a nine-game winning run across competitions. They are determined to reclaim the Spanish crown from Diego Simeone's side, who've blown hot and cold this season.

The Rojiblancos are winless in seven Madrid derbies, their longest such run under their Argentine manager. They will look to end that streak in the 228th Madrid derby on Sunday.

Ahead of the mouth-watering kick-off, here's a look at how Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid would stack up in a hypothetical combined XI:

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Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)

The Belgian has been flawless this season.

Choosing between two of the world's best goalkeepers, Jan Oblak and Thibaut Courtois, is a difficult proposition. Both are modern-day legends of the sport, and boast incredible records. However, on current form, the Belgian edges out his counterpart.

Although both have five clean sheets to their name this season, Courtois has conceded the joint-least number of goals with five. He also ranks sixth for the number of saves made (42) in the league this campaign.

The Real Madrid man is a dominant figure between the sticks, and possesses excellent positional sense and ability to excel in one-on-one situations. He'll look for a clean sheet against his former club on Sunday.

Centre-back: Eder Militao (Real Madrid)

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Eder Militao has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few years, and is now indispensable to Real Madrid's backline.

The Brazilian is averaging 3.8 clearances per game this season. That is a testament to his game-reading acumen. He is also strong in the air, making 2.4 aerial duels per outing.

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Centre-back: Felipe (Atletico Madrid)

Felipe won plenty of plaudits for his role in Atletico's La Liga triumph last season.

Felipe has settled into life well at Atletico Madrid, establishing himself as a solid member of their backline, thanks to his assured performances.

He's had his fair share of injuries this season. However, the Brazilian has looked spectacular whenever he has been on the field. He has also contributed two goals this campaign.

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Centre-back: David Alaba (Real Madrid)

He's having a whirlwind first season with Real Madrid.

What a fine addition David Alaba has been to Real Madrid's squad! The Austrian arrived on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in the summer.

He's rock-solid, a leader in defence and brings a wealth of experience. Alaba has also shown excellent attacking intent on occasion, contributing four goals.

Defensive Midfielder: Casemiro (Real Madrid)

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Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has said that when it comes to team balance, Casemiro is the most important player for Real Madrid.

The Brazilian is vital in breaking down opposition play, with his aggression and crunch tackling. He can also pop up with goals at crucial moments.

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Right Midfielder: Luka Modric (Real Madrid)

Modric is the heartbeat of Real Madrid.

It's difficult to believe that Luka Modric is 36, as he plays with a youthful exuberance that can put younger players to shame. His work rate is exemplary, and he remains a vital cog for his team.

He sets the tempo of games by controlling possession and making excellent distributions. Modric also often creates space for his teammates to thrive.

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Central Midfielder: Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)

An absolute baller

Toni Kroos, the third piece of Real Madrid's legendary midfield, is the archetypical modern attacking midfielder. He is dynamic and hard-working, and offers invention.

The German's biggest trait arguably remains his exquisite set-piece deliveries. He's averaging a staggering 95.1% passing accuracy, and has contributed three goals this season.

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Central Midfielder: Yannick Carrasco (Atletico Madrid)

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He didn't immediately hit the ground running after returning from China in January last year. However, Yannick Carrasco eventually settled in, and played a big part in Atletico Madrid's La Liga triumph last season.

With two goals and four assists this campaign, it's safe to say the Belgian has maintained that form. It'll be interesting to see how Real Madrid deals with Carrasco's threat.

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Left Midfielder: Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Vinicius is currently in the form of his life.

The breakout star of the year, Vinicius Junior has finally produced the form that was always expected of him since he arrived in Madrid three years ago.

He has struck ten times in the league this season, second only to Karim Benzema. Vinicius has also assisted three more goals, breathing fire at the moment.

Striker: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)

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With 12 goals and seven assists in 15 games, Real Madrid's Karim Benzema has taken La Liga by storm this season. He leads the Spanish division in both categories.

A peerless scorer with predatory instincts, terrier-like pressing and devastating finishing skills, the Frenchman could be a huge test to Atletico Madrid's defence.

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Striker: Luis Suarez (Atletico Madrid)

El Pistolero has caused Real Madrid plenty of damage in the past.

Luis Suarez has merely continued from where he left off last season, netting seven times and making two assists in 15 league games.

He went off with an injury in his last game, but has completed his recent training. Suarez looks set to feature on Sunday, which should come as a huge boost for the visitors in Madrid.