Real Madrid explore fresh approach before UEFA Champions League clash against Kairat Almaty 

Real Madrid enter their Champions League trip to Kazakhstan under pressure after a humbling derby defeat to Atletico Madrid,

Los Colchoneros scored five goals against them for the first time since 1950 which left supporters stunned by the defensive frailties on display.

The 5-2 loss ended a perfect start to the season that had included six consecutive league wins and an opening European victory against Marseille.

Robin Le Normand opened the scoring in the derby before Kylian Mbappe and Arda Güler replied for Los Blancos yet Diego Simeone’s men overran the visitors with Alexander Sorloth, Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann all finding the net in a second half collapse.

Real Madrid could make changes against Kairat Almaty

According to COPE journalist Melchor Ruiz, Xabi Alonso is seriously considering a tactical switch to three central defenders.

According to Ruiz, Alonso may also rotate his attack by offering Eduardo Camavinga, Brahim Díaz, Dani Ceballos and Rodrygo valuable minutes.

.@XabiAlonso puede salir mañana con 3 Centrales y con Valverde y Fran García como Carrileros

Ceballos Brahim Camavinga Rodrigo podrían entrar en el equipo pic.twitter.com/GP7YNwRfed

— Melchor Ruiz (@MelchorRuizCope) September 29, 2025

If Madrid go onto three Central defenders- Raúl Asencio, Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carerras likely to form the back line.

Federico Valverde could be deployed as a right wing back while Fran García is expected to start on the left to provide balance in wide areas.