Is this a temporary blip or a deeper structural issue? Are the players to blame or is the coaching staff failing to deliver? What changes need to be made to restore Los Blancos to their former glory?
Share your thoughts, opinions, and frustrations with fellow Real Madrid fans. Let’s dissect the problems and explore potential solutions.
I hate to admit it but Laporta was right, Mbappe’s arrival has unbalanced the team’s attack.
He doesn’t make the runs as a 9
He doesn’t press as much
He has no box presence
He holds the ball too often
He losses possession a lot
Has no confidence
Has no aerial ability
Rodrygo who provides so much support and balance to the midfield is now on the bench
In an attempt to replace Kroos, we should have signed at least 2 players but stubborn Perez tried to experiment again.
It’s a deep structural issue, players are to blame and management too.
Real Madrid is currently experiencing a significant downturn in form, marked by consecutive defeats that have raised serious concerns among fans and management alike. The team’s struggles were highlighted by a 3-1 loss to AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League, following a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in El Clasico. These results have left Madrid languishing in 18th place in the Champions League table and nine points adrift of Barcelona in La Liga.
Key Issues
Defensive Weaknesses
Carlo Ancelotti, has pointed to defensive lapses as a critical issue. Real Madrid has conceded nine goals in their last three matches, showcasing a stark contrast to their previous season, where they recorded the most clean sheets in La Liga. The absence of key defender Dani Carvajal due to injury has exacerbated these problems, leaving the squad vulnerable at the back.
Lack of Cohesion
Ancelotti has emphasised that the team’s lack of compactness and organisation is a collective issue rather than stemming from individual player performances. He noted that the players are not working effectively together on the pitch, which has led to both defensive frailties and missed scoring opportunities. This disarray has been particularly evident during high-pressure matches, where the team has struggled to maintain its composure.
Struggles of Key Players
New signing Kylian Mbappe has had a mixed start to his career at Madrid, scoring eight goals but failing to find consistency in his performances. Similarly, Jude Bellingham, who was expected to be a standout player this season, has yet to score in twelve outings. The rotation of players into unfamiliar positions has hindered their effectiveness and contributed to the team’s overall poor form.
Coach’s Response
Ancelotti is aware of the urgency needed to address these issues. He stated, “We have to be concerned; the team is not playing well,” urging his players to regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in both domestic and European competitions. He acknowledged that while criticism from fans is warranted, it is crucial for the team to focus on collective improvement rather than individual blame.
The upcoming match against Osasuna will be pivotal for Real Madrid as they seek to regain their footing and restore confidence within the squad. Ancelotti’s challenge will be to enhance team cohesion and defensive solidity while reinvigorating their attacking threat.
To improve Real Madrid’s defense, Carlo Ancelotti can implement several strategic changes aimed at addressing the team’s current vulnerabilities. Here are some key adjustments he might consider:
Tactical Adjustments
1. Strengthening Defensive Structure
Ancelotti has acknowledged that the team lacks a solid defensive structure, which has led to conceding too many goals. He needs to focus on reinforcing the defensive organization, ensuring players maintain their positions and work cohesively to prevent counter-attacks. This could involve setting clearer roles for defenders and midfielders during transitions to minimize gaps that opponents can exploit.
2. Midfield Control
The absence of Toni Kroos has left a void in midfield control. Ancelotti should look to re-establish midfield dominance by deploying players who can effectively manage the game’s tempo. Utilizing Luka Modric in a more advanced role while allowing Tchouameni or Camavinga to anchor the midfield could help regain balance and provide better support to the defense.
3. Right-Back Solution
With Dani Carvajal injured, Ancelotti must address the right-back position, where Lucas Vazquez has struggled defensively. Moving Eder Militao to right-back—where he has previously excelled—could provide more defensive stability while allowing Ancelotti to introduce a more robust central defender alongside Rudiger, such as Tchouameni.
Player Management
4. Individual Accountability
Ancelotti should emphasize reducing individual errors that have plagued the defense this season. Holding players accountable for their positioning and decision-making during training sessions could foster a greater sense of responsibility and improve overall performance on match days.
5. Restoring Team Spirit
The atmosphere within the squad appears tense, which can affect performance. Ancelotti needs to work on restoring team cohesion and morale. Encouraging open communication among players and fostering a supportive environment can help mitigate frustrations and enhance collective performance.
Training Focus
6. Defensive Drills
Implementing targeted training sessions focused on defensive drills can help players improve their positioning, tackling, and communication on the pitch. Regularly practicing scenarios that simulate game situations will prepare the team to handle high-pressure moments more effectively.
By making these changes, Ancelotti can work towards stabilizing Real Madrid’s defense, allowing the team to regain its competitive edge both domestically and in European competitions.
In my opinion, Real Madrid’s shocking losses to Barcelona (4-0) and AC Milan (3-1) at home are a wake-up call. The team’s lack of cohesion, tactical discipline, and defensive solidity is alarming.
Carlo Ancelotti’s tactics have been questioned, and rightfully so. The team’s reliance on individual brilliance rather than collective effort is exposed. Player selections and substitutions have been puzzling, and the absence of a clear game plan is evident. The squad’s depth and quality are undeniable, but complacency and inconsistency have crept in. Los Blancos need to reassess their strategy, rejuvenate their squad dynamics, and rediscover their winning mentality.
This slump might be a blessing in disguise, forcing the team to confront underlying issues and regroup. Real Madrid’s response will define their season. I’m confident they’ll sort this out and get back to winning ways.
