Real Madrid’s Defensive Woes: A Challenge for Ancelotti in the New Year

Real Madrid finds itself in a precarious position as they head into the new year. While the club is used to dominating on all fronts, their defensive frailties threaten to derail their ambitions. Coach Carlo Ancelotti faces a significant challenge in rectifying these issues and restoring defensive solidity to the team.

The statistics paint a concerning picture. Real Madrid has conceded a staggering 8 more goals compared to the same period last season. Across 26 games in all competitions, Los Blancos have let in 29 goals, translating to an average of over one goal conceded per match.

In La Liga, the difference is stark. The first 19 games of the 2023-2024 season saw them concede 11 goals, whereas this season, they have already conceded 18 in the same number of games. The Champions League reflects a similar trend, with 7 goals conceded in the group stage last year compared to 11 this year.

Carlo Ancelotti’s frustration is understandable. Key defensive players like Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal have all suffered prolonged absences due to injuries. This situation has been compounded by the departures of versatile defenders like Nacho Fernández in the summer transfer window. Additionally, Aurélien Tchouaméni, often deployed as a defensive cover, has also been hampered by recurring physical problems.

These absences have forced Ancelotti to constantly reshape his defensive line. Young, inexperienced players have been thrown into the deep end, while midfielders have been utilized in unfamiliar defensive roles. Unfortunately, these adjustments haven’t been enough to address the team’s shortcomings, particularly in aerial duels and defending against crosses.

A closer look reveals a glaring weakness – defending crosses. Four out of the last five goals conceded by Real Madrid have originated from crosses, exposing a lack of coordination and aggression in their defensive phases. Opponents exploit this vulnerability by targeting areas where communication between Thibaut Courtois, the central defenders, and the full-backs seems to be lacking.

So, what can be done to rectify these issues? Firstly, Ancelotti needs to focus on reinforcing tactical discipline. The players need intensive training on defensive transitions and covering vulnerable areas, especially against crosses. Additionally, the team needs to maximize the versatility of its remaining squad members, as Ancelotti has already done with Lucas Vazquez at right-back, Eduardo Camavinga at left-back, and Tchouameni at center-back.

The winter transfer window presents a potential solution. Real Madrid could significantly bolster its defense by bringing in an experienced central defender. This addition would provide much-needed stability and compensate for the continued absence of key players. Furthermore, the gradual return to fitness of Alaba, Carvajal, and Militão will be crucial in rebuilding a competitive defensive unit. Ancelotti has already hinted at the imminent return of Alaba, while Dani Carvajal was recently spotted intensifying his rehabilitation efforts.

Carlo Ancelotti’s ability to navigate these defensive woes will be a key factor in Real Madrid’s success in the second half of the season. Reinforcing tactical discipline, maximizing squad versatility, and potentially utilizing the winter transfer window to acquire an experienced central defender are all crucial steps Ancelotti must take. The return of injured players will also be a significant boost. Real Madrid fans will be hoping that Ancelotti can find the solutions necessary to restore their defensive solidity and maintain their position as contenders on all fronts.