Real Madrid face another game without major pieces of their first choice side on Saturday when they take on Real Zaragoza, who have performed surprisingly well to start the season. They were considered surefire relegation candidates coming into the year, but they've managed four wins and they're currently in the middle of the table.
Real Madrid vs. Real Zaragoza 2012: Preview and TV schedule
Real Madrid are extremely thin at fullback and in midfield. It shouldn’t matter against Real Zaragoza.
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno
Even though injury and suspension issues will limit Madrid considerably, they're still very heavy favorites and it would be surprising if they had much trouble with Zaragoza at home. Luka Modric and Michael Essien have been very good when forced into action, and there shouldn't be much of a drop-off in quality with them on the pitch.
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Marcelo, Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Fabio Coentrao. In doubt: Alvaro Arbeloa
Real Zaragoza injuries and suspensions
Out: Maurizio Lanzaro, Ivan Obradovic, Adam Pinter
Alvaro Arbeloa could return from injury to start at left back for Madrid, which would put Michael Essien into midfield. With both Khedira and Alonso out, Jose Mourinho will have to get creative with his team if Arbeloa is not able to start the match.
Match date/time: 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. local
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
TV: beIN Sport (U.S.), Sky Sports 4 (U.K.), Canal+ (Spain)
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