In a shocking turn of events, Real Madrid’s recent 3-1 home loss to AC Milan in the Champions League has left manager Carlo Ancelotti in deep reflection and concern. The defeat comes hot on the heels of a 4-0 thrashing by Barcelona in El Clasico, putting the spotlight firmly on Madrid’s defensive struggles and the integration of Kylian Mbappe. Ancelotti’s candid response suggests growing worries about his squad’s current form and hints at the challenges they face in salvaging their season.
“We’re not where we want to be,” Ancelotti admitted post-match, acknowledging the weight of Madrid’s back-to-back losses that have exposed cracks in their defense and raised questions about their title ambitions. “When you think everything is perfect, you fall,” he added, reflecting on how quickly fortunes can shift in football. For Madrid, who now find themselves adrift in La Liga and struggling in the Champions League group stage, the wake-up call couldn’t be louder.
One of the primary concerns, according to Ancelotti, is Madrid’s defensive fragility. The team has conceded nine goals across their last three matches, a troubling sign for a club known for its structured defense and resilience. Ancelotti pointed out that while Madrid has created scoring opportunities, the real issue lies in “how easily our opponents are creating opportunities.” He highlighted the need for greater solidity, warning that without a more organized backline, Madrid’s prospects this season are bleak.
The arrival of Kylian Mbappe, one of the most anticipated transfers in recent years, has not yielded the immediate spark many fans hoped for. The French forward, who has netted just once in his past six games, is struggling to adapt, and some, including Karim Benzema, have suggested he isn’t being played to his strengths. However, Ancelotti was quick to dispel rumors of discord, asserting that “the dressing room is healthy.” Yet, he conceded that the pressure is building and that his players must “struggle, fight, and think” to turn things around.
The defeat to AC Milan, coupled with the poor results in recent weeks, raises questions about whether Madrid can pull together in time to secure their season. Ancelotti stressed that “worry in these moments is normal” and noted that it would be “a long night” of reflection for him and his staff. He also emphasized that while his players are committed, they currently lack cohesion on the pitch, and it’s evident in their inconsistent performances.
Real Madrid’s next game against Osasuna in La Liga has taken on added importance, with Madrid’s season seemingly at a tipping point. The fixture now appears to be a must-win, with Mbappe likely to keep his place in the starting lineup despite his recent slump. Ancelotti will be hoping his side can rally and address their defensive vulnerabilities, but only time will tell if Madrid can rediscover the spark that has made them champions.
The pressure is on for Ancelotti and his team to respond, with fans waiting to see if Real Madrid can reclaim their form or if deeper issues lie beneath the surface. For all the latest details and reactions, follow the link in the comments!
