After the tough defeat against Arsenal in the Champions League, Real Madrid has to change its mindset. The white team is refocusing on La Liga.
Today they face Alavés in Vitoria. There is no room for error: winning is the only option if they want to keep dreaming of the title.
It won't be just any match. The context has changed. Madrid not only arrives emotionally affected but also with important changes both on the bench and in the starting eleven.
Ancelotti Out Due to Suspension
One of the big news is the absence of Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian coach will not be on the bench this matchday.
He was suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card against Valencia. Curiously, he received it while they were reviewing an action in the VAR, and that action will cost him watching the match from the stands.
Without his presence, it will be his son, Davide Ancelotti, who takes the helm. It's not the first time he has led from the sidelines, but today, more than ever, he has to prove he has his own voice.
Davide Takes the Lead
Davide doesn't want to be just a stopgap. In this week's training sessions, he has already made it clear that he comes with ideas, and one of them is surprising: he bets on a 4-4-2. A more balanced, more direct system, with new key pieces.
The offensive pair will be formed by Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo. But the big absence will be Vinícius Júnior. The Brazilian will rest after several demanding matches, the decision has been technical, also considering the upcoming schedule.
Gonzalo García's Turn?
With Vini out, a door opens for others. One of the names strongly mentioned is Gonzalo García, the young player has been gaining minutes and could start on the left wing. He doesn't have Vinícius's flair, but he brings work, vision, and a freshness that can be key.
Davide trusts him. He has tested him in several sessions, and his inclusion wouldn't be a surprise.
The atmosphere at Real Madrid will be demanding. The fans want an immediate response after the European setback, Madrid can't fail anymore. Every point is gold in this final stretch, and although the leadership is complicated, there are still possibilities if those at the top slip up.
Today's match is more than three points. It's a test of character. And it's also the first chapter of the "new" Real Madrid, at least for a day.
Because even though the boss isn't there, the badge still carries weight. No excuses.