FC Schalke 04 and Real Madrid have released their confirmed starting lineups ahead of their pre-season friendly meeting. The fixture brings together two clubs who have followed vastly different trajectories since their last competitive encounter over a decade ago.
Confirmed Lineups
FC Schalke 04:
- Goalkeeper: Karius
- Defenders: T.Becker, Katić, Kuruçay
- Midfielders: Ljubičić, El-Faouzi, Schallenberg, Aouchiche
- Forwards: Adamu, Sylla, V.Becker
Real Madrid:
- Goalkeeper: Courtois
- Defenders: Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Huijsen, Carreras
- Midfielders: Valverde, Silva
- Attacking options: Díaz, Güler, Vini Jr.
- Forward: Mbappé
Schalke appear to be deploying a formation with three centre-backs and an attacking trio, while Real Madrid’s setup suggests a 4-2-3-1 configuration featuring an experienced spine alongside creative attacking talent.
History Renewed
The teams last faced one another eleven years ago in the UEFA Champions League. On that occasion, Schalke secured a remarkable 4-3 victory over the Spanish giants. That result stands as a high point in the clubs’ limited competitive history, coming during an era when both sides occupied positions among Europe’s elite.
Since that Champions League meeting, the clubs have indeed travelled on divergent paths. Real Madrid have continued to compete at the highest level of European football, while Schalke have faced relegation battles and reconstruction phases in the Bundesliga and second tier.
Pre-season Context
This friendly offers both managers the opportunity to assess squad depth and tactical approaches ahead of their respective league campaigns. For Schalke, the match represents a chance to test themselves against world-class opposition, while Real Madrid can utilise the fixture to build cohesion within their star-studded roster.