Ancelotti Identifies Kylian Mbappé As The ‘Setback’ At Real Madrid
LAGOS NOVEMBER 5TH (NEWSRANGERS)-Carlo Ancelotti has publically stated that he wants new signing Kylian Mbappé (25) to make the difference in attack, however, it is his work – or lack thereof – out of possession that has been identified as the big issue in this Real Madrid side, as reported by Relevo
Los Blancos currently are not the all-conquering side that strolled to the La Liga title and wrapped up another UEFA Champions League title last season. Following defeats to Lille OSC and Barcelona, Ancelotti has sought to understand why there has been a drop-off, relative to last season.
Mbappé, who joined on a free transfer over the summer, has now been identified as the issue. The France captain is not putting in the defensive work, as highlighted by the fact that he ran just eight kilometres in the 4-0 defeat in the Clásico. This lack of investment in carrying out defensive duties is causing an imbalance that permeates the rest of the team, meaning that attempts to win the ball back are disorganised.
In that regard, manager Carlo Ancelotti is struggling with the task of fitting his star players into a cohesive system.
Ancelotti typically designs his tactics around the strengths of his players, like he did with Jude Bellingham last season. He usually creates an environment where they can thrive.
However, with Mbappe’s arrival, the situation has become more complicated, and it appears that some players are suffering as a result.
Romain Molina reported last month that Real Madrid “regret” having signed Mbappé, and whilst Relevo don’t back up that claim, the club want the former Paris Saint-Germain forward to be more self-critical and for him to understand and assume his defensive duties.
Four players suffering, including Mbappe
Among those most affected are Eduardo Camavinga and Kylian Mbappe himself, while Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham also experience the repercussions of this tactical reshuffle.
Bellingham, in particular, is facing difficulties in this new setup. Under Ancelotti, he finds himself in a less favourable position, as Mbappe’s presence in the attacking line has restricted the spaces where he usually excels.
Last season, he often made incisive runs from the back, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking play. However, with Mbappe occupying central areas, those opportunities have diminished, leading to a noticeable drop in his scoring chances.
Mbappe is out of position too
Mbappe’s predicament is arguably the most significant. He has been placed in a role that does not align with his strengths.
Traditionally, Mbappe thrives as a left winger, where he can utilize his remarkable speed and agility to cut inside and take shots with his right foot.
However, in his current position as a centre-forward, he is often required to play with his back to the goal, which limits his ability to impact the game effectively.
This tactical misalignment raises questions about Ancelotti’s strategy, especially given that he previously experimented with positioning Vinicius Jr. as a centre-forward to create more space for Rodrygo on the left.
Such rotations seem to have fallen by the wayside since Mbappe joined the squad.
Then there is Rodrygo
Furthermore, it must be noted that Rodrygo has also become a casualty of this shift. He has been somewhat sidelined in Ancelotti’s attacking plans, despite having a successful partnership with Vinicius last season.
Their chemistry allowed them to pose a significant threat to opposing defences but with the integration of Mbappe, Rodrygo’s role has diminished.
This reduction in influence is concerning, especially as Rodrygo is known for his ability to create space and opportunities for others, a skill that has been stifled in the current formation.
No place for Camavinga
Another player caught in this tactical puzzle is Camavinga. The young French midfielder has not been able to find his ideal position in the team.
Ancelotti typically deploys Aurelien Tchouameni as the main midfielder, which limits Camavinga’s opportunities to showcase his talents. Additionally, Federico Valverde’s versatility complicates matters further.
Valverde often plays as a right midfielder, covering defensive duties but limiting Camavinga’s chances to thrive in a more central role.
The youngster’s strengths lie in his ability to control the midfield and contribute to both defence and attack, yet he struggles to find his rhythm when positioned on the left.
In summary, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe has led to a challenging period for Ancelott. The current tactical setup has resulted in four key players—Mbappe, Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Camavinga—finding themselves in roles that do not fully utilize their talents.
Ancelotti’s insistence on placing these players in unfamiliar positions has diluted their impact on the game, making it essential for the coach to reconsider his strategies.
OneFootball
For media advert placement, events coverage, media consultancy, placement of publications and further inquiries please WhatsApp 2348023773039 or email:
Short URL: https://newsrangers.com/?p=129485
Posted by News Rangers
on Nov 5 2024. Filed under National, Sports.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0.
You can leave a response or trackback to this entry
