Real Madrid’s Defensive Crisis: Ancelotti to Experiment with Options Amid Injuries

Real Madrid’s defensive line is in disarray as injuries continue to plague the squad, leaving Carlo Ancelotti grappling with tough selection decisions. Key defender David Alaba is sidelined until January due to a long-term injury, while Daniel Carvajal’s recent ACL injury has effectively ruled him out for the entire season.

The situation worsens with Eder Militao, who has been struggling with recurring injuries this season, leaving Ancelotti with only Antonio Rudiger and Jesús Vallejo as fit centre-backs, with the latter not being a trusted option for the manager.

In response to this crisis, Ancelotti is set to experiment with different defensive formations in the upcoming matches. Aurelien Tchouameni, typically a defensive midfielder, is expected to step into a central defensive role as he has done on several occasions this season. Tchouameni expressed his willingness to adapt, stating, “Obviously, I prefer to be in the middle, but I always try to give my best.”

With additional challenges arising in the full-back positions, Ancelotti may also rely on midfielders Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde to fill in as necessary. As it stands, Real Madrid has no plans to make winter transfer market signings and will aim to maximize the use of their current squad to navigate through the season.

The hierarchy for defensive roles will prioritize first-team players shifted out of position before considering academy prospects, ensuring that the focus remains on utilizing existing resources for immediate challenges