Real Madrid News
Ancelotti sees veteran trio as the backbone of this Real Madrid team
According to reports from MARCA, Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear to the administration that he sees the trio of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema as the backbone of his setup. All three players are untouchable to the Italian tactician’s dynamics.
It might appear strange how the manager centres his team around three veteran stars when the entire world of football concentrates on building around young talents. Yet, his standpoint is understandable given the value the three players continue to add day in and day out.
Real Madrid’s recent slump in form is the latest example of the team’s dependence on the trio. It comes as no surprise that the Merengues‘ poorest performances of the season coincide with the nights when all three stars fail to perform and the same can be said about the Clasico defeat midweek.
Benzema is arguably the one who has struggled the most of the aforementioned players this season, missing close to 15 big chances in La Liga and struggling to replicate his high standard from last season. His poor form has opened the doors for talks of a potential new signing, but it is clear that the Frenchman offers much more than just goals.
Kroos and Modric, meanwhile, continue to rule Los Blancos‘ midfield. Age has unsurprisingly caught up with both stars, yet, has not reduced the X-factor that they bring to the field in any way.
All three veteran stars have their contracts running out in the summer of 2023. Benzema is close to extending his deal at the Bernabeu but the situation with Kroos is not as clear as the German contemplates retirement.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s game against Real Betis, Ancelotti stressed the importance of veteran players in the side saying,
“I don’t think so (that the veterans are a liability). Of course not. They are players who think about what they are going to do before receiving. And they have that quality. They don’t run, they make the ball run. And they taught me that’s the important thing, because the ball doesn’t sweat.”
It remains to be seen whether all three remain at Real Madrid next season or not. But for now, the trio remain key to Ancelotti’s plans.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Brazilian national team are ‘dreaming’ of appointing Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as their next manager.
The Selecao decided to part ways with Tite after the team underdelivered in the FIFA World Cup 2022. Ramon Menezes has taken charge of the senior team for the time being until a permanent appointment is made.
And, the Brazil Football Confederation is clear about who their preferred target is. Ancelotti has been heavily linked with the South American nation in recent months and comments from players like Ederson, Rodrygo Goes and Vinicius Jr have only served to further fuel the rumours.
Now, Romano is claiming that Brazil dream of naming Ancelotti as their manager and are hoping that he will be parting ways with Real Madrid at the end of the season.
As far as the situation at the club is concerned, Romano states that Real Madrid are working hard to protect Ancelotti from external pressure as they want him to remain focused on winning the UEFA Champions League this season.
The Italian tactician remains in 100% control of the team at the moment and the club are trying to shield him from external factors.
However, at the same time, trophies are a must at a club of this stature and hence, Romano adds that Real Madrid have a potential list of candidates to take over.
Thomas Tuchel was among the names on the list, but has signed for Bayern Munich. Raul Gonzalez, currently in charge of the Castilla team, is also being looked at along with former Tottenham and PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino.
As of now, Ancelotti remains in control of things at Real Madrid and any decision on his future will only be made at the end of the season. And, Brazil are lying in wait to pounce if an opportunity to sign the Italian manager presents itself.
