Real Madrid News
Trouble in paradise? Ancelotti staring at uncertain future at Real Madrid after Barcelona loss
It has been an uncertain time for Carlo Ancelotti, as far as his future at Real Madrid is concerned. If the links to the Brazilian football team were not enough, the Italian has faced immense criticism for the team’s performance, along with some of his choices, reports Alfredo Matilla.
Real Madrid’s draw with Atletico Madrid in La Liga last week did indeed draw a lot of flak, especially from club president Florentino Perez. He questioned Ancelotti’s team selection and subsequently asked him to play his strongest eleven in crucial matches.
But this week, Real Madrid’s problems were compounded after a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.
Although the tie is far from done and dusted and Real Madrid will have an opportunity to overturn the situation in the second leg, it was a disappointing result for Los Blancos, who have not historically done well in Copa del Rey.
In light of the performances, even the relationship between Ancelotti and his players has reportedly changed. Some members of the club are trying to push him away from the Santiago Bernabeu while some of the first-team stars are questioning his tactical choices.
All of this comes in the backdrop of Ancelotti’s links with the Brazilian national team, with the South American giants keen on naming the Italian Tite’s successor.
Some people within the Real Madrid camp are aware of the fact that Ancelotti may have to pack his bags at the end of the season if the club fail to win anything come May.
The Spanish giants have no shortage of potential replacements either, with Jurgen Klopp eyed as one of the targets.
What hurts Ancelotti, though, is the fact that Real Madrid are the one pushing for his exit, more than the Brazilian national team. The Italian, though, will have the opportunity to prove himself during the remainder of the campaign and his future has not been decided just yet.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid dressing room heavyweight raises concern over Vinicius: “We have to make him happy again”
One of the major sagas of the summer transfer window was the contract renewal involving Vinicius Junior.
Real Madrid and Vinicius had been in talks over a new deal for a significant period, and there were stages when it felt like an agreement might not be reached.
However, in the end, the film had a happy ending, with the 26-year-old putting pen to paper on a new deal at the club.
Despite the new deal, there are some concerns over Vinicius that have now reached the dressing room.
As quoted by Diario AS, an unnamed dressing-room heavyweight approached Mourinho after the game and expressed worry about the treatment Vinicius is receiving from a section of the Bernabeu crowd.
“Worried about Vini
The concern came after Vinicius was heavily whistled when he was substituted late in the Inter match, despite producing one of his stronger collective performances of the season.
“Boss, I am worried about Vini,” the senior player told Mourinho.
“After everything he has done for Madrid over the years, the way part of the fans have treated him is not normal. We have to make him happy again.”
This is no longer only about outside criticism or Mourinho publicly defending one of his forwards. The dressing room itself has recognised that Vinicius may need support.
Mourinho still sees Vinicius as untouchable
Despite how the crowd have been treating the 26-year-old, within the club, there is no doubt about what Vinicius brings to the table.
Mourinho sees him as one of the first names on the team sheet and an untouchable player in his plans for the club.
To his credit, the Brazilian has shown far greater defensive commitment and a willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of his team.
This has undoubtedly led Mourinho to appreciate the effort, and the manager is determined to help Vinicius return to his best level.
Madrid need to protect one of their key players
That approach makes sense.
Vinicius has spent years carrying enormous attacking responsibility at Madrid. A difficult spell should not suddenly erase what he has already shown he can provide.
If Mourinho, the president and the dressing room are all united behind Vinicius, that support could be decisive.
It is high time the Bernabeu crowd also got behind their talisman and gave him the support he deserves.
The Brazilian will also have to become more consistent with his performances, and it remains to be seen how Mourinho addresses this situation.
