Real Madrid – OM: De Zerbi ready to surprise with Paixao in his XI?

A surprise from Brazil

What if Roberto De Zerbi dared the unexpected to launch OM in the Champions League? According to La Chaîne L’Équipe, the Marseille coach is considering starting Igor Paixao on the left wing. Explosive and unpredictable, the Brazilian has impressed in training and is increasingly establishing himself as a credible option. His potential inclusion in the starting lineup would send a strong signal: that of an OM unwilling to play it safe, even at the Bernabéu.

A reorganized defense

At the same time, the Italian coach must deal with a major absence: Nayef Aguerd. After suffering a head injury against Lorient, the Moroccan was unable to travel with the squad. To make up for his absence, Leonardo Balerdi is expected to partner Benjamin Pavard in central defense, with Medina on the left and Murillo on the right. In front of them, the duo Kondogbia–Højbjerg should provide solidity, while Angel Gomes will play slightly higher up the pitch.

Aubameyang, the experience factor

In attack, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains the leading man for OM. Used to the big stage, the Gabonese striker embodies the European experience of this team. Alongside him, Greenwood is expected to act as a game-changer, while Paixao’s potential start would add freshness and creative flair. De Zerbi knows that against Real Madrid, every bold move can turn into a psychological advantage.

OM’s probable starting XI

A calculated gamble?

By starting Paixao, De Zerbi would be taking the risk of an offensive gamble, but one true to his philosophy: a bold style of football where every player understands their role. OM will arrive as underdogs at the Bernabéu, but with the belief that to hope for an upset, sometimes you have to surprise even the biggest teams.