The Real Madrid faced the classic against Atlético de Madrid with some doubts in the air regarding their starting eleven. Carlo Ancelotti made tests in the previous Copa del Rey match that resulted in some players not having the sufficient level, despite the needs. This is the case of Jacobo Ramón, who didn't perform well in Butarque and has lost his spot in the starting line-up.
Considering Real Madrid's problems in defense, Carlo Ancelotti wanted to give the youth player a chance in the Copa to prove his true worth. He didn't perform well, and although the Italian understood, he has decided to leave him out of the eleven to play against Atlético de Madrid. The coach believes that he isn't capable of handling a high-level match like this and it could harm him in the long run.
That's why, having left Jacobo Ramón on the bench, Ancelotti has started with Tchouaméni again as a center-back against Atlético de Madrid. "He is the starter in defense," sources from Real Madrid point out to Madrid-Barcelona. The Italian is very clear about it and has consistently made clear, indicating that, although he is a midfielder, he needs him available there.
It's not the best possible solution, but it's the one he has and that's why he tried Jacobo Ramón there in the last match. Had he done well, he would have had the opportunity against Atlético alongside Raúl Asencio, but that wasn't the case. That's why Carlo Ancelotti has opted for the 'lesser of two evils,' giving the center of the defense to Tchouaméni.
Confirmed in the Madrid-Atlético: Carlo Ancelotti Needs Signings
It's true that injuries are negatively affecting Madrid's season. But it's equally true that the planning by Florentino Pérez and Carlo Ancelotti has been disastrous for this campaign. Looking ahead to the next season, the Italian coach has requested reinforcements in the defensive line, considering this the key to achieving a higher level.
It seems that on the right, the chosen one is Alexander-Arnold, with everything agreed with Madrid. In the central area, there are doubts and the market is being scouted, although Florentino's dream is Saliba from Arsenal. Also, a new left-back is sought for the left, where Fran García is the starter, and the debate is between Miguel Gutiérrez and Theo Hernández.
It's been challenging for Madrid, but Carlo Ancelotti is making do with what he has. And, right now, what he has is Tchouaméni to join Asencio. That's how he has done it against Atlético de Madrid.