Real Madrid couldn't afford to slip against Rayo Vallecano, but they ended up doing just that. In a match swayed by refereeing errors, Ancelotti's team couldn't get past a 3-3 draw, dropping two crucial points in the race for LaLiga. After the events, Madrid-Barcelona has learned that the Italian coach has made an important decision regarding the starting line-up of the first team.
In Vallecas, Raúl Asencio was left scoreless. It can't be, Ancelotti believes that he made a mistake and there must be a significant change in the starting eleven. In his place, Tchouaméni started and left a poor impression, failing in crucial plays and showing defensive fragility. The conversion clearly isn't working, but it's a result of the rotations due to the packed schedule.
Ancelotti's decision is clear for closing 2024. Two matches remain: one is the Intercontinental final and the other, a league clash against Sevilla. In these two encounters, the Real Madrid coach has decided to start with Raúl Asencio. He is the best possible partner for Rüdiger at the moment, and anything else would be a mistake.
Ancelotti Makes a Decision after What Happened against Rayo: a Shift in Madrid
Raúl Asencio brings more calm to his teammates than Tchouaméni. The academy player has convinced everyone, but it seems the most important person isn't quite sold: Ancelotti. That's why the Italian intends to give him the opportunity for the rest of 2024 to try to win him over.
This means Real Madrid plans changes in the starting line-up for the rest of the year: fewer rotations to try to end 2024 on a high note. This involves placing Tchouaméni in his natural position as a midfielder and giving Raúl Asencio another chance alongside his partner Rüdiger.
Ancelotti believes that the recent setbacks are due to the heavy schedule Real Madrid is facing. Rotating is necessary to stay fresh for the end of the current season. However, the bench isn't as strong as in previous campaigns, largely due to the injuries in defense.
Real Madrid is struggling, but the plan is clear and Ancelotti has no doubts: the season will end with titles.