Assessing Carlo Ancelotti’s toughest XI decision with every possibility in play | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is facing a challenging situation, but this is nothing new for the experienced Italian coach.

Over the years, he has repeatedly dealt with adversity, be it injuries, tactical adjustments, or the constant demand for success.

This cycle of setbacks and solutions, however, is something Real Madrid is accustomed to, and Ancelotti himself is no stranger to navigating such circumstances.

At the moment, the squad is dealing with multiple setbacks in midfield. Dani Ceballos is sidelined due to injury, Jude Bellingham is unavailable because of suspension, and Federico Valverde is experiencing discomfort that could affect his participation.

These issues leave Ancelotti with four potential approaches to maintaining balance in the team. While the options seem straightforward, each plan comes with its own complications and trade-offs.

Option 1: The natural replacement

Aurelien Tchouameni can return to his preferred position. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

One of the most logical solutions would be to restore Aurelien Tchouameni to his preferred role in midfield.

His recent spell as a centre-back was more of a necessity than a long-term plan, and with Ancelotti now having a fit option to play in defence, Tchouameni can move back into the middle of the park.

However, that raises another question: who will partner him? The simplest choice would be Valverde, who has been a reliable presence in midfield. This would also allow Lucas Vazquez to continue playing at right-back.

However, the challenge here is that Valverde has often been considered a full-back option for high-stakes matches, which could limit his availability in midfield when Madrid need him the most. If Valverde is forced to play in defence, alternative solutions must be explored.

Option 2: Modric takes charge

Luka Modric can also enter the starting XI. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

If Valverde is positioned at full-back, Ancelotti would need another midfielder to accompany Tchouameni. With Ceballos out injured, the most obvious candidate would be Luka Modric.

Despite his age, the Croatian midfielder continues to deliver at a high level. His recent performances have been exceptional, contributing goals, assists, and an impressive level of creativity.

His recent form makes him a strong candidate to step in. While Eduardo Camavinga is another option, Modric currently appears to be in better shape and more capable of influencing games.

Options 3: A chance for Camavinga

Eduardo Camavinga has a window of opportunity. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Despite his struggles, Camavinga remains a highly talented player. He has proven his quality in the past, however, his recent dip in form has raised concerns.

His performance in the Spanish Super Cup against Barcelona was particularly difficult, as he conceded a penalty, was fortunate to avoid a red card, and was ultimately substituted at half-time.

Since that match, he has looked less confident and more prone to errors. That said, injuries often open doors for players, and Ceballos’ absence could provide Camavinga with the opportunity to reclaim his place in the team.

While he currently finds himself behind Modric in the pecking order, he has the ability to turn things around if he can rediscover his best form.

Option 4 –  A Modric-Camavinga pairing

Modric and Camavinga can also play together. (Photo by PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU/AFP via Getty Images)

Another potential solution, albeit a less likely one, would be to pair Modric and Camavinga together in midfield. This setup would require Tchouameni to continue playing in defence, which would push Asencio to the bench.

While Tchouameni’s presence at centre-back could improve Madrid’s ability to play out from the back, it also comes with defensive vulnerabilities.

Ancelotti might not be fully convinced that Tchouameni is the right long-term option in that role. Nevertheless, in certain situations, the Modric-Camavinga duo could be deployed as a temporary measure.