With less than a week to go before the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal at the Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti is under pressure to deliver a result if he hopes to salvage the remainder of Real Madrid’s season. For this crucial match, two important decisions must be made to strengthen the team.
Even though there is a league fixture this Saturday, the focus surrounding Real Madrid is clearly on the return leg of the Champions League tie against Arsenal’s Gunners. After being soundly beaten 3-0 in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, the Madrid side is actively preparing for a remontada, although such a comeback seems difficult to achieve. Especially given the underwhelming performances from Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes, hopes are slim. Nonetheless, despite the daunting and unlikely task ahead, belief remains strong among the Madrid camp.
According to reports, the ultras are planning an unprecedented show of support for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, both before and during the match. While preparations ramp up among the supporters, the coach and his staff are devising plans to field a more competitive line-up. Judging by how the team looked last Tuesday, several major changes are necessary—particularly in midfield.
The essential return of Ceballos and Tchouaméni
Indeed, in the first leg, Madrid’s midfield was overwhelmed, particularly in the second half. With Camavinga and Luka Modric mostly occupied with defensive duties, the attackers received very few dangerous balls. Fortunately, for next Wednesday’s return leg, two key reinforcements will be available—namely Dani Ceballos, who has returned to training with the squad, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, back from suspension.
After leaving the Merengue midfield short-handed in the hands of veteran Modric—who no longer has the legs of a 20-year-old to perform sprints required by Arsenal’s style—Ceballos and Tchouaméni should provide a welcome breath of fresh air. Next Wednesday, Carlo Ancelotti should simply build his midfield around these two key players alongside Jude Bellingham. With Camavinga suspended for the return leg, the only thing that could prevent Aurélien from starting would be an unexpected injury—something that must be avoided during Saturday’s league match.
Valverde still in defence
As for Ceballos, he should take Modric’s place, as the Croatian struggled greatly against the young and dynamic midfielders of Mikel Arteta’s side in the first leg. It would be a serious mistake to move Federico Valverde back into midfield and leave the right side of defence to Lucas Vázquez. As in the first leg, Ancelotti should keep Fede in defence, alongside Rüdiger and Asensio. On the left flank, Fran García would be a strong option to replace David Alaba, who once again disappointed at left-back.
In attack, it might be wise to consider benching one of the usual front three and starting Brahim Díaz instead. With his explosive pace and ability to break through tight spaces, the Moroccan could cause real problems for the Gunners. However, this option remains almost unthinkable for Carlo Ancelotti. Barring any surprises, Vinicius, Mbappé, and Rodrygo are expected to start in attack. In short, Ancelotti should not recall Modric and Alaba next Wednesday.
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