Real Madrid faces one of its toughest rivals tonight, Manchester City, in a crucial Champions League match. Both teams are fighting to reach the later stages of the tournament, and expectations are high.
However, the Madrid team arrives with several absences in its defense, which could affect its performance. In this context, Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo Ancelotti, has proposed a tactic that could surprise everyone.
Madrid's Defensive Challenge
Real Madrid comes to this match with several key players absent in defense, forcing Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching staff to seek innovative solutions.
The defense will be especially affected on the flanks, a crucial area when facing a team as offensive as Manchester City. Putting Mendy on the right flank could provide defensive solidity, taking advantage of his physique and speed to stop City.
Mendy as Right Back: A Risky but Promising Option
The decision to move Ferland Mendy to right back has been one of the most favored by Real Madrid fans. Mendy is known for his defensive solidity and his ability to stop opposing strikers.
However, his usual position is on the left flank, so this change will require adaptation. Despite this, many consider that his presence on the right side could be key to neutralizing the advances of players like Jack Grealish or Phil Foden.
This change would also allow Real Madrid to maintain a more compact defensive structure, especially against City's quick counterattacks. Although the option is risky, Mendy's versatility could be the key to providing stability to the defensive line.
Fede Valverde: More Freedom in the Midfield
Fede Valverde has been key in Real Madrid's midfield this season, and with some absences, his role could be even more decisive. If Valverde moves to the center of the field, as suggested by Davide Ancelotti, he would have more freedom to dictate the pace of the game. His ability to recover balls, his vision, and his arrival in the opponent's area make him an ideal option to change the course of the match.
Valverde, with his tireless energy and ability to quickly transition from defense to attack, could be a game-changer. Additionally, his versatility allows him to adapt to different roles within the midfield, giving him a tactical advantage over City, which always tries to dominate ball possession.