Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger is reportedly in contention to return to the starting lineup for the Champions League encounter against RB Leipzig as Jose Mourinho prepares his squad for a crucial European fixture ahead of the weekend’s El Clasico against Barcelona.

According to a report published by Madrid Universal on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the German international is expected to partner Ibrahima Konate in central defence, with Mourinho assessing his options before the highly anticipated meeting with Madrid’s biggest domestic rivals.

Rudiger has been sharing playing time with Dean Huijsen in recent matches, but his experience, physical strength and defensive aggression could give him an advantage for the Leipzig fixture. His potential inclusion alongside Konate would offer Madrid a powerful central defensive partnership capable of handling aerial challenges, physical battles and dangerous attacking movements.

Konate is also expected to feature prominently against his former club. The French defender previously represented Leipzig before joining Liverpool in 2021, making the upcoming encounter a significant occasion for him. He is reportedly in line to retain his place as Madrid seek another positive result in the Champions League.

Elsewhere in the expected defensive setup, Denzel Dumfries is tipped to start at right-back, while Marc Cucurella could occupy the left side of the defence. Thibaut Courtois is expected to continue as the team’s goalkeeper, providing experience and security behind the defensive line.

Rudiger’s possible return could prove particularly important given the timing of the fixture. Madrid face Barcelona in El Clasico on Sunday, a contest that could place considerable pressure on Mourinho’s defensive planning and his ability to select a reliable back line.

The German centre-back’s strength in individual duels, aggressive approach and experience in high-pressure matches could make him an important option against Barcelona’s pace and attacking combinations. His ability to deal with physical forwards and organise the defensive line may also help Madrid manage the demands of the upcoming showdown.

However, the Leipzig match will provide Mourinho with an opportunity to evaluate how effectively Rudiger and Konate operate together. Their coordination when defending space behind the back line, tracking opposition runs and distributing the ball from defence could influence future selection decisions.

A strong performance from the pair would improve their prospects of starting together against Barcelona, although their physical condition after the European fixture will also need to be assessed.

Madrid’s immediate objective remains securing a positive result against Leipzig. Nevertheless, the approaching El Clasico adds another layer of importance to Mourinho’s defensive choices, with the manager expected to balance the need for European success against preparations for one of the season’s most significant domestic encounters.

The reported lineup remains subject to confirmation, and Mourinho’s final decision will depend on his assessment of the available players and the tactical demands of both matches.