
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is facing a defensive dilemma after Antonio Rudiger’s injury in the defeat to Espanyol, with the Italian tactician and his staff reportedly unconvinced by the partnership between Aurélien Tchouameni and Nacho Asencio (also known as Nacho) in central defense.
With Rudiger set to miss several weeks due to a hamstring injury, Ancelotti’s options are limited.
The club failed to make any significant defensive signings in the transfer window, and David Alaba has yet to start a game, leaving Tchouameni and Asencio as the likely pairing.
![]()
However, Ancelotti and his staff have doubts about the duo’s ability to form a solid defensive partnership, leaving the team vulnerable at the back.
With a crucial Champions League tie against Manchester City looming, Ancelotti will be hoping that his defensive options can step up and fill the void left by Rudiger’s injury.