Story byAsencio, Ceballos start in a 4-4-2 – How Real Madrid can line up against Celta VigoMadrid UniversalSun, December 7, 2025 at 8:00 AM UTC·3 min readReal Madrid return to the Santiago Bernabeu with nothing less than three points on their minds as they prepare to face a dangerous Celta Vigo side in a crucial La Liga clash. With Barcelona stretching their lead at the top of the table after a dramatic 5-3 victory over Real Betis, the pressure is firmly on Los Blancos to respond. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe gap now stands at four points, and any further slip could place serious strain on their title ambitions. Xabi Alonso’s side have experienced an unusual wobble in recent weeks, drawing three consecutive league matches against Rayo Vallecano, Elche and Girona between early and late November. That short run of dropped points proved costly, allowing Barcelona to overtake them in the standings. However, Real Madrid showed clear signs of recovery last weekend with a commanding 3–0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames, a result that restored confidence in the dressing room and among the fanbase. The Bernabeu has long been a fortress for Madrid this season. They remain perfect at home in La Liga, winning all six of their league matches in front of their supporters and scoring 14 goals in the process. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementYet, Celta Vigo arrive in the capital with a strong away record of their own, having collected 11 points from six away fixtures. This sets up a fascinating tactical battle where Madrid’s home dominance meets one of the league’s travelling specialists. DefenceFederico Valverde will return to the right-back role. (Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia/)In goal, there is no debate.