Vinicius Junior Set to Return vs. AEK Athens
Real Madrid's predicted lineup for Wednesday's Champions League match includes Vinicius Junior back in the starting XI.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Soccer
Real Madrid is expected to name Vinicius Junior in its starting lineup for Wednesday's Champions League match against AEK Athens in Athens. The winger remains suspended in La Liga but is available for European fixtures.
Why it matters
Vinicius Junior's return gives Real Madrid its leading attacking option for a European fixture while his domestic suspension continues. The predicted lineup also reflects a reshuffled midfield and defense as several players are unavailable.
Vinicius Junior has recorded one goal and three assists in 11 appearances across all competitions this season. The extraction does not specify the minutes played or whether these figures include the Champions League.
The players
Vinicius Junior
Vinicius Junior is a Brazilian winger for Real Madrid who is expected to return to the starting lineup for the AEK Athens fixture.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid is a Spanish football club based in Madrid that competes in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
AEK Athens
AEK Athens is a Greek professional football club based in Athens that hosts Real Madrid in this Champions League fixture.
The details
Arda Guler is set to drop back into central midfield alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, while Denzel Dumfries could replace Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back. Rodrygo and Raul Asencio are both out of the European match with knee and leg injuries, respectively, and Federico Valverde has returned to training after a hamstring issue.
Timeline
Wednesday (November 4, 2026): Real Madrid's Champions League match against AEK Athens in Athens.
Two days from the time of reporting: the lineup is expected to be confirmed ahead of the match.
Season Trajectory
Vinicius Junior's availability in European competition while suspended domestically reflects how Real Madrid's squad depth is being tested across competitions this season. The match against AEK Athens offers the club a chance to maintain its European campaign while managing a list of absences in key positions.
Fantasy managers and fans tracking Vinicius Junior should note his return to the starting lineup for the AEK Athens fixture, given his limited output of one goal and three assists this season. The predicted absences of Rodrygo and Raul Asencio may also shape selection decisions for supporters following the match.
The takeaway
Monitor the confirmed lineup closer to kickoff, since predicted starting XIs can change due to late fitness tests and tactical decisions. Fans following European fixtures should expect squad rotation to continue while domestic suspensions and injuries remain in play.
What happens next
Real Madrid's Champions League match against AEK Athens is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in Athens.
Further reading
Explore more coverage in the Soccer section for context on European fixtures and squad news.
