Carlo Ancelotti’s experimentation with Real Madrid in pre-season bore fruit on some occasions but went awfully wrong on others. It is clear that the manager is still on the hunt for the right mix of players and profiles to boost the on-field chemistry.

What appears rather clear, however, is the transition to a 4-4-2 diamond setup. As in the Clasico last week, Ancelotti opted for the midfield-intensive setup against Juventus last night, albeit in a losing cause once more.

The Italian tactician’s decision to persevere with the setup goes to show that he considers it ideal to fit the players at his disposal. Needless to say, he has a few favourite candidates whom he plans to build around.

According to journalist Rodra, Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga are two such starlets who will be untouchable for the manager’s lineup in the coming season. They will form the backbone of the team.

A midfield-centred team

It is clear that Los Blancos’ transfer activity this summer leaves them with an abundance of riches in the final third but a rather depleted attack.

And, Bellingham and Camavinga are set to form the crux of the team, not only because of their quality but also their ability to play in multiple positions and their attitude.

Ancelotti sees the new signing, Bellingham, to be the ideal candidate to start regularly behind the two forwards. Playing as an attacking midfielder, his role will be to orchestrate play in the opponent’s box while also looking for goals himself.

Camavinga, meanwhile, will play further behind as an interior midfielder. He will likely be joined by either Federico Valverde or Luka Modric. Toni Kroos and Aurelien Tchouameni will fight for the pivot role.

As the 4-4-2 setup demands, the attack and defence will be highly reliant on the four midfielders who form the heart and soul of the formation.

Needless to say, a lot will depend on the permutations Ancelotti chooses amongst the goldmine of talents at his disposal in the middle of the park.