Ahead of the UEFA Champions League knockout stages, Real Madrid's coaching staff is facing serious problems. Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti is seriously considering who to field at right-back in the match against Manchester City.
Serious losses in the defensive line
Before the match, there were reports that Lucas Vazquez could miss this important match due to injury. This has further exacerbated the problems in the Real Madrid defensive line. With Vazquez's performance in question, the coaching staff needs to clearly determine who will play at right-back.
In addition, Real Madrid will be without a number of leading defenders for this match:
- Dani Carvajal;
- Eder Militao;
- David Alaba;
- Antonio Rüdiger.
This forces Ancelotti to make major changes in the defensive line.
Federico Valverde was expected to play at wing-back
According to several reputable sources, initially Carlo Ancelotti wanted to try midfielder Federico Valverde at right-back. The Uruguayan player is physically strong, has good ball skills and is also fast. Therefore, it was assumed that he could perfectly cope with the defensive tasks.
However, during the last training sessions, Ancelotti may have changed his mind.
Ancelotti may make an unexpected decision
The news about the Italian specialist's tactical approaches was reported by the publication "Madrid Xtra". According to the source, Ancelotti tested Ferland Mendy at right-back in the last training session.
Mendy mainly plays as a left-back, but his defensive abilities and experience could allow him to play effectively in this position. Ancelotti's team may have made this decision to provide defensive stability against the physically superior Manchester City.
What effect could Ferland Mendy play at right-back?
If Ancelotti starts Mendy at right-back, it would significantly change Real Madrid's tactics. Because the French defender is physically strong and excels in one-on-ones. However, considering that he is actually a left-back, his effectiveness on the right wing may be questionable.
In addition, if Mendy plays on the right wing, it is possible that this will limit the team's attacking opportunities. Because he is a left-footed player, he may have difficulty organizing an effective attack on the right wing.
It is still unclear what line-up Carlo Ancelotti will choose against Manchester City. However, for now, one of two options is likely:
- Federico Valverde playing at right-back;
- Ferlan Mendy playing at right-back.
Both options have their risks. Against a team as strong and fast in attack as Manchester City, Ancelotti's tactical decisions will be crucial.
Unexpected changes and final decisions will be known closer to the start of the match. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”
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