Rafael Benitez
Rafael Benitez was jeered by Real Madrid fans during the match against Rayo Vallecano Getty

Speculation remains rife over Rafael Benitez's future as Real Madrid prepare to face Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu on 30 December.

Where to watch live

Kick-off is set for 3pm GMT. The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 1 HD.

Overview

Rafael Benitez is under immense pressure to improve Real Madrid's performances and results despite the club's 10-2 rout of Rayo Vallecano in their last La Liga outing. The capital club have won just three of their last six matches in the league and are two points behind leaders Barcelona, who have a game in hand.

Defender Rafael Varane has returned to training after recovering from a thigh injury and could start against Real Sociedad. Toni Kroos (leg) and Sergio Ramos (shoulder) are doubtful to feature, while Dani Carvajal (thigh) is still sidelined.

Real Sociedad are on a three-game winless run in all competitions and have won just three of their last 10 matches. The Basque club have beaten Madrid just once in their last 16 head-to-head meetings in La Liga.

The visitors are without the injured duo of David Zurutuza and Raul Navas for the trip to the Santiago Bernabeu. Right-back Alberto de la Bella is available again after serving a one-match ban.

What managers say

Rafael Benitez: "I am fortunate that I came out of the tunnel late so I didn't hear anything of that [fans jeering Benitez's name before the match against Rayo Vallecano] and was just concentrating on the game. We took advantage of our numerical superiority. From that moment, we did what we had to do and scored lots of goals."

Eusebio Sacristan: "We lacked determination [against Villarreal]. We must have more belief and try to control the game. My team did a great job throughout but got no reward."

Form guide

  • Real Madrid (all competitions): WLWWL
  • Last result: Real Madrid 10-2 Rayo Vallecano
  • Real Sociedad (all competitions): LDDWL
  • Last result: Real Sociedad 0-2 Villarreal

Betting odds (888sport)

  • Real Madrid win: 2/17
  • Draw: 9
  • Real Sociedad win: 17

Team news

Real Madrid possible XI: Navas; Danilo, Varane, Pepe, Marcelo; Rodriguez, Casemiro, Modric; Bale, Benzema, Ronaldo

Real Sociedad possible XI: Rulli; Elustondo, Reyes, Martinez, De La Bella; Illarramendi, Canales, Granero; Vela, Agirretxe, Bruma

Real Madrid