The schedule is tight, there's no rest. Real Madrid is already preparing for next weekend's match against Deportivo Alavés. The big news isn't on the field, but on the bench: Davide Ancelotti will lead the team.
A Forced... and Special Change
Carlo Ancelotti won't be there. The Italian coach was sanctioned after receiving a yellow card in the last match against Valencia; he was cautioned while they were reviewing an action in the VAR. That yellow card, the fifth, means a one-match suspension.
The RFEF confirmed it: Carlo will miss the match in Mendizorroza. But it won't all stay at home. His son and assistant, Davide Ancelotti, will take the reins of the team.
It's not the first time Davide has weight within the coaching staff, but it will be the first time he has the final say during an official match. It seems he has it clear.
Tactical Changes and Bold Decisions
Davide wants to leave his mark. He won't be just a patch. In this week's training sessions, he has already given hints: he bets on a 4-4-2, with Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo as offensive references.
His idea is not only tactical but also strategic. Real Madrid has a key Champions match against AFC in a few days, and they need to manage resources.
That's why Vinícius Jr. will rest. Yes, the Brazilian won't even start, and in his place, there will be an exciting bet: Gonzalo García will have minutes from the start.
Davide Wants to See the Young Players
"We can't overwork the starters," Davide Ancelotti reportedly commented in private. The phrase sums up his plan. His plan includes giving minutes to those who are pushing hard.
Besides Gonzalo, Endrick is also on the list of new faces. The young Brazilian has already shown some flashes in his minutes with the first team, and next weekend he will have a new opportunity.
Davide wants to see the young players in action. He wants rhythm, he wants fresh legs. Above all, he wants to make decisions that help the team, without considering the last name.
One Match, Many Readings
Although it's a "minor" league match on paper, the game against Alavés will be an important test. Not only for the players but also for Davide Ancelotti.
He will be under the spotlight. Any of his moves will be analyzed. It's also an opportunity to show that the future of the Madrid bench has a good foundation.
Gonzalo will play before Vini. Endrick will have minutes, and Davide will give orders with conviction. Madrid wants to win, but also manage, test, and trust.
This Sunday, Mendizorroza will see more than just a match. It will see a temporary change... but perhaps also the preview of something more.