Real Madrid announce squad for La Liga opener against Real Sociedad

Real Madrid published the 19-men list for La Liga opener against Real Sociedad —Sunday 20:30 CET—.

Goalkeepers: Kiko Casilla, Rubén Yáñez and Luca.

Defenders Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Nacho, Marcelo and Danilo.

Midfielders: Kroos, James, Casemiro, Kovacic, Asensio and Isco.

Attackers: Lucas Vázquez, Bale, Morata and Mariano.

Zinedine Zidane confirmed during the prematch press conference that Mariano will stay with the first team this season and he has been included in Real Madrid's first list. Karim Benzema is still recovering from a hip injury and Mariano could have minutes as Morata's backup if Madrid need more firepower.

Real's coach also said that Asensio is Cristiano Ronaldo's first replacement, meaning that the promising youngster might be set to start the match against Real Sociedad.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Keylor Navas, Pepe, Benzema and Coentrao will miss the game as they try to recover from their injuries and get in shape as soon as possible. Luka Modric is suspended for the game.