Real Madrid News
Ancelotti’s one starting XI doubt for Real Madrid vs Liverpool: defensive midfield
Carlo Ancelotti seems to have sorted out every detail of his starting lineup for the second leg against Liverpool, except for one position: defensive midfield. The Italian gaffer has two options on the table for that role and is yet to make a final decision.
The two options on the table are Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, as per Rodra (h/t Madrid Xtra).
Tchouameni was a constant in Ancelotti’s starting lineup in the first half of the season, but his post-World Cup form has been worrying for Real Madrid. He had also picked up an injury during that time, making way for Camavinga and Toni Kroos to contest that role.
The Frenchman was benched against Barcelona and Atletico Madrid both, with Camavinga and Kroos taking up responsibility in that role, respectively.
The former’s error that led to goal ended up being the difference in El Clasico, though. He was also on the end of a mistake against Liverpool.
He seemed to have adjusted to the role well enough but does not have the same defensive aptitude as Tchouameni. Further, he is also not a high-volume passer and often loses concentration, which has led to the two aforementioned errors.
Should Tchouameni get the nod in defensive midfield, Ancelotti could use Camavinga as a left-back. However, that role does not convince either the player or president Florentino Perez.
Ancelotti trusts him there in the absence of David Alba and Ferland Mendy, though.
Tchouameni looked much better against Real Betis and Espanyol in the last two games, and was also applauded by the Santiago Bernabeu for his assist to Eder Militao.
Kroos and Luka Modric are definite starters in the XI against Liverpool, and the final decision over the pivot will likely be taken on the day of the game itself.
Although Antonio Rudiger has had success since joining Real Madrid last summer, the club are in need of more depth and players that can form the backbone of the defensive unit in the years to come.
As part of their plans, Real Madrid are prioritising a move for Josko Gvardiol in the coming summer, reports 90 Min.
The outlet suggests Gvardiol will be one of the most wanted prospects in the market, with both Real Madrid and Manchester City eyeing a move for the Croatian international come the end of the season.
Formerly of Dinamo Zagreb, Gvardiol has enjoyed immense success since his move to the Bundesliga in 2021. He has impressed onlookers with his skill, organisation and discipline, which, coupled with his versatility, make him an appealing target for any European giant.
Gvardiol was also one of the top performers at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, helping Croatia finish third in the competition. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid among the clubs who have been keeping an eye on the defender for a while now.
However, signing Gvardiol will be a tricky task for Los Blancos. The player still has a long-term contract at Leipzig and could cost up to €85 million, as reported by 90 Min. Not to mention, the competition from Man City could be significant.
Real Madrid have no shortage of alternatives, though, with the club notably closely monitoring Portuguese defensive whizkid Antonio Silva, among others. So it will be interesting to see how the Spanish giants approach the market in this coming summer.
