As Real Madrid struggle to find their footing, Carlo Ancelotti is faced with a difficult decision: should he sacrifice one of his star players to restore balance to the team?
With Florentino Pérez’s insistence on playing all four of his top players – Vinicius, Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Bellingham – in the starting lineup, Ancelotti is under pressure to find a solution that works.
The Italian coach has been exploring options to free up Bellingham from some of his defensive responsibilities, but another approach could be to temporarily bench one of the other star players. But who would be the best candidate for the bench?
Kylian Mbappe: As one of the most clinical finishers in the league, Mbappe’s absence would be felt in front of goal. However, his pace and skill could be utilised in a different role or brought off the bench to provide a spark.
Vinicius Junior: Vinicius’s creativity and skill on the wing are invaluable, but his defensive work and discipline have been a concern. Giving him a rest could allow him to recharge and refocus on his attacking play.
Rodrygo: As Pérez’s favourite player, Rodrygo’s position in the lineup might seem secure. However, his role in the team could be adjusted to accommodate the needs of the team, and giving him a break might allow him to return refreshed and revitalized.
Ancelotti’s challenge is to find a balance between pleasing Pérez and finding a lineup that works on the pitch. With a 3-0 deficit to overcome in a crucial match, the pressure is on Ancelotti to deliver results.
Will he opt to sacrifice one of his star players, or will he find another way to make it work? Only time will tell.