With the season in full swing, Real Madrid, usually synonymous with success and exploits on the European stage, are going through a tricky period at the major tournaments. Far from the performances that characterised the last campaign, Los Merengues are struggling to impose their rhythm in decisive matches. The string of recent results is worrying not only the fans, but also the coaching staff, especially with the clash with Manchester City just around the corner.
For those who follow Real Madrid, there is no denying that the opposite is true of the previous season. Defeats and disappointing performances follow one another in games that, in theory, should offer an opportunity to shine. The most bitter defeat was against Barça. At home in the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, Madrid suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat, a result that is sounding alarm bells. And that’s not all: the Spanish Supercup final ended 5-2 in favour of the Blaugrana.
Disillusionment does not stop at Spanish derbies. In the Champions League, Real Madrid suffered a 1-3 defeat at the hands of Milan in a match played at home. This match, which should have been an opportunity to showcase the team’s attacking power and defensive solidity, left a bitter taste in the mouths of the fans. Then came the clash with Liverpool at Anfield, where the Merengues lost 2-0.
While these defeats illustrate a season of mixed fortunes, the record does not end there. In La Liga, the match against Bilbao, although expected to be a tough encounter, ended in a 1-0 defeat. Another worrying sign came from the matches against Atlético Madrid. The Madrid derbies ended in draws, 1-1 in both legs.
Carlo Ancelotti’s record is alarming
In seven meetings with the big teams this season, Carlo Ancelotti’s side have failed to win a single game (7 matches, 5 defeats and 2 draws). This record, which seems to be part of a worrying trend, raises many questions about the team’s tactical choices and physical preparation. There is no shortage of criticism, and the pressure is being felt both in the dressing room and among the fans, who are beginning to doubt the Merengues’ ability to return to their usual level.
Some observers are pointing the finger at their sometimes hesitant handling of crisis situations, as well as their lack of creativity in the big moments. In decisive matches, Real Madrid’s usual rigour seems to be lacking. While defensive solidity and responsiveness in attack have long been the club’s major assets, this season’s series of negative results has led to fears that the team may find itself in difficulty when faced with the increasing demands of the competition. What’s more, the numerous injuries have not helped Carlo Ancelotti and his staff, who have been tinkering around the edges, particularly in defence.
The factors behind Real Madrid’s downward spiral
There are several reasons for this disconcerting spiral. Firstly, there is the issue of fitness and injuries, which have weakened the squad at crucial times. The prolonged absences of key players such as Dani Carvajal, David Alaba and Eder Militao have forced Carlo Ancelotti to experiment with new combinations, often with mixed results. Secondly, the fierce competition on the European and domestic stage means that consistency is hard to maintain, especially in matches where every tactical decision is scrutinised to the millimetre.
Tactical adjustments have also been called into question, notably the use of Tchouameni in central defence and the handling of Arda Guler and Endrick. The sometimes over-cautious approach adopted in major matches seems to have left little room for strikers like Kylian Mbappé to break free and take decisive initiatives. The transition between defence and attack, once emblematic of Madrid’s game, also seems to have lost some of its fluidity.
This situation is all the more problematic given that Real Madrid play in a league and Champions League where speed and tactical innovation are essential if they are to gain the upper hand. There is also the psychological pressure, which is not working in the Merengues’ favour. This negative spiral is likely to get worse if no solution is found quickly.
The ultimate challenge: Manchester City in three days’ time
On the horizon is a major challenge that could well mark a turning point in the season. Real Madrid prepare to face Manchester City this Tuesday at the Etihad, a formidable opponent in the Champions League play-offs. This match represents much more than a simple confrontation. In a way, it represents a renaissance for a team struggling to find its rhythm in big games.
Faced with the Citizens’ cutting-edge attack and rigorous defence, Real Madrid will need to correct their mistakes. The duel will be an opportunity to gauge whether Ancelotti’s team is capable of pulling itself together and reversing the negative trend that has set in against the big boys this season. For the fans, it is a last hope to see their club return to the heights to which it is accustomed. Conversely, another setback could precipitate a crisis from which it would be difficult to emerge.
Leave a Reply