Line-ups: Essien retains place

Michael Essien will retain his place at left-back despite recent criticism as Real Madrid face Real Mallorca.

The Ghana international was lambasted for his performance at full-back against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday, but the on-loan Chelsea keeps his place, alongside Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Raphael Varane.

Luka Modric and Xabi Alonso play at the base of midfield, whilst Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria and Cristiano Ronaldo support.

Gonzalo Higuain starts up front ahead of Karim Benzema.

Real Mallorca: Aouate; Ximo, Anderson, Geromel, Bigas; Gio, Pina, Fontas, Pereira; Casadesus, Hemed

Real Madrid: Casillas; Ramos, Varane, Pepe, Essien; Modric, Xabi Alonso; Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo; Higuain

Tags Essien Real Mallorca
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