Zidane: Ronaldo, Bale, and Benzema aren't 'untouchable' starters

Real Madrid's star trio of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Karim Benzema may be among the first names on Zinedine Zidane's team sheet, but the French manager says they are by no means guaranteed a starting role in every match.

"It's not that they are untouchable, it's that they are the best players on account of what they've done," Zidane said, as quoted by ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan. "They are great players, like the others, but a little bit more.

"They'll get more playing time than the rest of the squad, but the others will also get their share of minutes."

In Benzema's absence, Zidane switched to a 4-4-2 formation that saw Isco star in a 3-0 win against rival Atletico Madrid. It's a foray away from the usual 4-3-3 the team utilizes and one that gives Zidane other options, including the regular use of Alvaro Morata up top and Bale returning to his original left wing.

"(Bale) started his career out on the left wing and he was a great player in that position," he said. "He's capable of playing in many roles and given his shooting ability, he can also play on the right.

"We'll have to see where he lines up, but he played really well in the derby and sent in some dangerous crosses and did well on the third goal. We know that he's got a lot to give in that position."