Ancelotti’s Bold Tactical Shift Brings a New Dynamic to Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti is shaking things up, swapping the raw power of Tchouaméni, Fede, Vini, and Rodrygo for the finesse of Camavinga, Modric, Güler, and Brahim.

After the LaLiga break, Ancelotti has opted for a fresh lineup, sparing the players who traveled to South America and selecting the most skillful squad possible. It’s a major litmus test for Madrid’s artists, who are sharing the pitch for the first time this season. The lineup of Camavinga, Modric, Bellingham, Güler, and Brahim flank Mbappé, who continues his race for the Pichichi against Lewandowski without taking a pause.

From a tactical perspective, this lineup is innovative and logical, but it diverges from Madrid’s usual strategy with a shift towards an interior-focused game, rather than relying on wings. While Brahim and Güler start in wide positions, they naturally veer inward. Brahim is expected to occupy the left, while Arda takes the right.

The midfield, orchestrated by Camavinga, features Modric and Bellingham positioned ahead. With Bellingham near the box, poised for goal attempts, and Modric aiding Camavinga in crafting plays from the heart of the midfield.

This match acts as a trial for several players, especially Arda Güler, who seldom starts. However, the Turkish player comes in on a high after his sparkling performance against Hungary, where he scored a spectacular goal.