The change in regulations in the Champions League has caused certain concerns within Real Madrid. Vinícius Júnior's case has caused worry both in the coaching staff and in the player himself.
The yellow card cycle has changed, and this could affect key players like the Brazilian. Ancelotti has already made it clear to him that, from now on, he must be especially careful in his performances.
The yellow card cycle: a new rule
This year, the Champions League introduces a change in the yellow card cycle, which can have a significant impact on players who are frequently booked. According to Iturralde González, the card cycle starts with three yellows to miss a match, then two, and finally one.
Vinícius Júnior is already in a delicate situation, as he has accumulated three yellow cards. This means that if he receives two more, he would miss the next match. Ancelotti knows that losing a key player like Vinícius in a decisive match would affect the team's performance.
The importance of caution
Vinícius is not the only player who must be cautious at this time. Besides the Brazilian, players like Jude Bellingham, Antonio Rudiger, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Luka Modric, and Endrick are also on notice. This means that if any of them receive a yellow card in the next first leg of the round of 16, they will not be able to play the return leg.
Real Madrid's coaching staff, led by Ancelotti, is aware of this situation and knows that no unnecessary risks can be taken. The tactic in this regard will be essential. Madrid would seek to settle the tie early, allowing some players to "clear" their cards without affecting performance.
The challenge of the knockout stage
Real Madrid hasn't had a good performance in the Champions League group stage. Despite being one of the strongest teams, it finished in eleventh position, which forces it to play an extra round before the quarterfinals. Ancelotti's team will face one of the strongest, either Manchester City or Celtic.
Carlo Ancelotti has been clear with Vinícius Júnior: from now on, he must be more careful with the cards. The accumulation of cards can be a problem, and in a tournament as competitive as the Champions League, losing key players could be crucial for the team's future. Ancelotti trusts his players, but he reminds them that discipline will be key in the upcoming rounds.