Carlo Ancelotti faces a tactical nightmare as Real Madrid’s key position crumbles | OneFootball

Real Madrid are struggling with a significant problem at right-back, and this issue is only expected to worsen in the coming weeks.

With crucial fixtures on the horizon, the lack of a reliable option in this position could heavily impact their season, reports Manu de Juan in AS.

The upcoming weeks will be decisive for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, as they face a tough run of matches before the international break. Real Betis, Atletico Madrid twice, Rayo Vallecano, and Villarreal are all on the schedule.

However, two major concerns stand out—the midfield situation after Dani Ceballos’ injury and the uncertainty surrounding the right-back role. While Eduardo Camavinga and Luka Modric are possible solutions in midfield, the options at right-back remain unclear.

Lack of players

Federico Valverde has proven to be the most effective choice in big matches, particularly against Manchester City, but the Uruguayan is currently unavailable.

Real Madrid are facing severe issues in right-back role. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

That leaves Ancelotti with Lucas Vazquez, a converted winger, and Asencio, a natural centre-back. The manager does not seem fully convinced by either.

During the match against Real Sociedad, despite having Vazquez on the bench, Ancelotti opted to test Asencio at right-back.

The experiment did not go as planned, as Sociedad fans caused him constant problems, leading to a first-half booking. Concerned about going down to ten men, Ancelotti substituted him at half-time for Lucas, who provided more stability.

Despite the struggles, Ancelotti has publicly defended the experiment, stating that Asencio offers a different profile compared to Vazquez and Valverde. However, with Betis up next, Lucas is expected to regain his spot.

The bigger question looms over the Champions League last-16 clash against Atletico Madrid. Valverde remains the ideal option, but his availability is uncertain.

He played against City with an injection and has since missed three matches. Until he returns, Real Madrid’s right-back situation remains a serious concern.