According to a report by Madrid Universal on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, Real Madrid have confirmed their starting lineup for tonight’s UEFA Champions League encounter against AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico, with Vinicius Junior returning to the starting eleven after being benched in their previous La Liga match against Villarreal.

The Spanish giants have made several changes to their selection ahead of the important European fixture. Roma, managed by Jose Mourinho, will be hoping to secure their second consecutive victory in the competition as they prepare to face the Spanish side.

Vinicius is the most notable inclusion in Real Madrid’s lineup after missing out on a starting role against Villarreal. The Brazilian forward will be eager to make a strong impression in Europe following his recent dismissal in the domestic league.

The 26-year-old received a four-match suspension in Spanish competitions after being sent off during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal. However, the punishment does not apply to Champions League matches, allowing him to feature against the Italian club.

His return means Arda Guler has been moved to the substitutes’ bench. Yan Diomande retains his place in the attack alongside Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe, with the trio expected to cause problems for Roma’s defence.

Jude Bellingham will operate in the attacking midfield position, where his creativity and movement could help create opportunities for the forwards. Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni will continue as the central midfield pairing, providing defensive support while helping Real Madrid maintain possession and control the game.

Real Madrid have also made two changes to their defence, with Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella coming into the starting lineup at full-back. They replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras as the team prepares for the challenging encounter.

Thibaut Courtois retains his position as the first-choice goalkeeper and will be expected to deliver a reliable performance between the posts.

Real Madrid’s confirmed starting lineup is Courtois in goal; Dumfries, Konate, Rudiger and Cucurella in defence; Valverde and Tchouameni in midfield; while Diomande, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Mbappe complete the attacking formation.

Vinicius’ return provides an additional attacking option as Real Madrid seek a positive result away from home and aim to continue their European campaign with another strong performance.