Terrible news for Lucas Vázquez after City, Carlo Ancelotti has made his decision

Real Madrid’s impressive victory over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu (3-1) has brought Lucas Vázquez’s future into question once again. With Carlo Ancelotti having made a major decision regarding the remainder of the season, the Spanish defender finds himself in a precarious situation.

Los Blancos are now entering the most crucial phase of their campaign. Having navigated past the reigning English champions in the Champions League round of 16, Madrid have firmly established themselves as favorites. Across the two legs, they showcased their attacking brilliance, scoring six goals while conceding just three. Despite Manchester City’s offensive firepower, Real Madrid’s backline held firm, even in the absence of Lucas Vázquez. His spot in the starting eleven was taken by Federico Valverde, whose versatility proved invaluable.

Ancelotti has made his defensive choice

According to sources close to the club, Carlo Ancelotti has come to a significant decision regarding his defensive setup. Reports from Relevo suggest that the Italian tactician plans to continue using Valverde at right-back in high-profile matches while relegating Lucas Vázquez to less competitive fixtures. Given Valverde’s energetic and disciplined displays, he appears to be the preferred choice for Madrid’s biggest encounters.

During both legs against Manchester City, Valverde demonstrated exceptional defensive discipline. His ability to cover ground, intercept passes, and provide an offensive threat down the right flank makes him a formidable asset in Ancelotti’s system. Meanwhile, Vázquez, at 33 years old, has struggled to meet expectations in crucial games this season.

A bitter reality for Vázquez

For Lucas Vázquez, this decision is undoubtedly difficult to accept. The Spanish full-back has been a loyal servant to Real Madrid, but recent performances suggest his influence on the team is waning. Ancelotti’s trust in Valverde signals a shift towards a more dynamic and defensively stable approach on the right side.

With Real Madrid aiming for both La Liga and Champions League glory, the coaching staff is prioritizing consistency and reliability in their defensive lineup. Valverde’s adaptability has provided Madrid with an edge, and his ability to neutralize world-class attackers has not gone unnoticed. This tactical shift could significantly impact Vázquez’s future at the club.

Could this be the end for Vázquez at Madrid?

With Dani Carvajal also in the squad and the potential arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold in the summer, Vázquez’s role could become even more diminished. The club is actively exploring long-term solutions for their right-back position, and this season could mark the beginning of Vázquez’s gradual exit from the starting lineup.

At 33, Vázquez may need to consider his options beyond the Santiago Bernabéu. While he remains a valuable squad player, his role as a starter in decisive fixtures appears to be over. With younger and more dynamic players emerging, Madrid is moving towards a new era in their defensive setup.

The broader implications for Real Madrid

If Ancelotti’s decision holds, Real Madrid could find themselves with a stronger and more balanced defensive unit in the latter part of the season. With a solid center-back partnership between Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asensio, and Valverde’s addition to the backline, Madrid boasts a defensive structure capable of withstanding elite opposition.

Their recent performance against Manchester City proves that when properly organized, Madrid’s defense can be nearly impenetrable. Keeping Valverde at right-back could be the key to ensuring stability and balance, which could be crucial in their pursuit of European and domestic glory.

Tactical adjustments and future expectations

Real Madrid’s defensive success will hinge on Ancelotti’s ability to maintain this new system while managing squad rotation. The Italian coach will need to make calculated decisions regarding when to rest key players and when to deploy Valverde in midfield instead of defense. If Madrid faces fitness concerns in their midfield, Ancelotti might have to reconsider this approach.

Nonetheless, for now, Valverde has firmly positioned himself as the go-to option at right-back in high-stakes encounters. This development not only affects Vázquez but also raises questions about Carvajal’s long-term role in the squad. With Carvajal also in his 30s, Madrid might soon have to invest in a younger, permanent solution for their right-back position.

A turning point in Madrid’s season

As Madrid enters the business end of the campaign, every decision made by Ancelotti will carry significant weight. The Italian manager has demonstrated his tactical flexibility throughout the season, and this latest move further underlines his willingness to make tough calls for the greater good of the team.

With Valverde providing defensive assurance and adding an attacking threat from the right flank, Madrid fans will be eager to see how this strategy unfolds in the coming weeks. If the Uruguayan continues to thrive in this role, it could mark a defining shift in Madrid’s tactical philosophy.

Conclusion

Lucas Vázquez has been a dedicated servant to Real Madrid, but the writing appears to be on the wall. Ancelotti’s decision to favor Valverde in major matches suggests that the Spaniard’s time as an undisputed starter is nearing its end. While Vázquez still has a role to play, his influence in key encounters is diminishing.

As Madrid fans look ahead to the remainder of the season, all eyes will be on Ancelotti’s defensive choices. If Valverde continues to excel at right-back, this decision could prove to be one of the defining tactical moves of Madrid’s campaign.