Left-back against Arsenal: Carlo Ancelotti has decided between David Alaba and Fran García

Real Madrid’s Champions League journey has reached a crucial stage, and for once, Carlo Ancelotti finds himself with a genuine selection headache. As Los Blancos prepare to face Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, the Italian tactician must make a defining choice regarding his left-back: David Alaba or Fran García?

With the first-leg showdown set for Tuesday, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Madrid will travel to England with confidence after knocking out European giants Manchester City and city rivals Atlético Madrid. However, the challenge presented by Mikel Arteta’s energetic and aggressive Arsenal side is a different beast altogether—one that requires precision, defensive discipline, and tactical clarity.

Unfortunately for the Spanish giants, the squad has been hit hard by injuries. Key players like Aurélien Tchouaméni, Dani Ceballos, Ferland Mendy, and goalkeeper Andriy Lunin are all unavailable. These absences, particularly Mendy’s, have forced Ancelotti and his staff to rethink their defensive setup, especially on the left flank.

In recent seasons, Ferland Mendy had made the left-back position his own, even though his performances were often under the microscope. Despite his inconsistencies, Mendy was always trusted in big matches. But a lingering muscle injury means he won’t be part of the traveling squad for the crucial clash at the Emirates.

Ancelotti is therefore left with two main options: Austrian veteran David Alaba or the energetic Spanish youngster Fran García. The former, with years of experience at Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, brings calmness, aerial prowess, and tactical flexibility. The latter, recently brought in from Rayo Vallecano, offers blistering pace and a relentless desire to attack.

Interestingly, Alaba has been tried at left-back recently, including in a brief appearance against Valencia. He’s no stranger to the position, having played there regularly during his Bayern days. But those were different times. Recent performances, particularly in La Liga against Real Betis and Real Sociedad, have raised doubts about his current form in that role.

Despite the temptation to field Alaba for his leadership and big-match temperament, reports from Diario AS and Defensa Central confirm that Carlo Ancelotti has leaned in favor of Fran García. It’s a decision that speaks volumes—not just about form, but also about Madrid’s long-term vision.

García, although not physically imposing, has caught the eye with his stamina, quick bursts, and attacking contributions. In training leading up to the Arsenal clash, he’s reportedly been sharp, committed, and eager to prove himself worthy of a starting role on such a prestigious night.

The decision to go with García is not merely tactical. It’s symbolic. For years, Real Madrid has been criticized for not fully integrating young talents into high-pressure scenarios. This is an opportunity for the 24-year-old to make a name for himself and show the world that Madrid’s next generation is ready to shine under the European spotlight.

This could potentially be García’s breakout performance—a defining moment in his young career. Arsenal’s attack, led by the electric Bukayo Saka, will be a stern test. But García’s speed and recovery ability might be just what Real Madrid need to neutralize the threat down the English side’s right wing.

What’s more, García is arguably the quickest left-back on the Madrid roster. His overlaps and whipped-in crosses have given opposition defences headaches in La Liga. If he can replicate that offensive output while holding his own defensively, he could prove to be one of the game’s pivotal figures.

In a season where Real Madrid’s defence has often looked shaky, particularly in games where they’ve surrendered late goals, a strong showing from Fran García would not only boost his reputation but also ease Ancelotti’s worries as the season reaches its climax.

Florentino Pérez and the club’s board will be watching closely. If García impresses, it may influence Madrid’s transfer strategy this summer. Instead of pursuing a new left-back, the club might double down on nurturing what they already have. A standout performance could make García more than just Mendy’s backup—it could make him the future of Madrid’s left flank.

Speaking after Madrid’s disappointing defeat to Valencia in La Liga—a result that many believe ended their realistic hopes of clinching the domestic title—Ancelotti hinted at the need for defensive improvement and clinical finishing. “We lost an opportunity to fight more firmly for La Liga. The match against Arsenal will be different. They will attack more, and we must be solid. Also, we need to be more efficient in front of goal,” he noted.

The message was clear: there is no room for error in the Champions League. With the league title slipping away, Europe remains the most prestigious prize Madrid can realistically chase this season. And in that pursuit, every position counts—even the often-overlooked left-back slot.

For Fran García, this isn’t just another game—it’s a moment of truth. A strong performance could elevate his standing at the club and signal a changing of the guard. For Alaba, it’s a moment of quiet reflection. Once an undisputed starter, he now finds himself on the bench in favor of a younger, faster alternative.

The duel with Arsenal promises to be one of the standout clashes of the quarter-finals. And now, with García confirmed as the man to take up the left-back role, all eyes will be on how he handles the pressure and responsibility of representing the white shirt on one of Europe’s biggest nights.

If he succeeds, not only will Madrid be one step closer to another Champions League semi-final, but a new star may officially be born at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Only time will tell if Ancelotti’s bold decision will pay off. But one thing is certain: against Arsenal, Fran García will have the chance to write his own chapter in Real Madrid’s storied European history.