Real Madrid are going through a complicated period in their defensive sector, but against all expectations, the club has opted not to recruit any reinforcements at the end of the season, even in the face of a spate of injuries. It’s a decision that has left Carlo Ancelotti in a tricky position.
Already last season, the prolonged absences of Éder Militao and David Alaba had put Madrid’s defence to the test. Today, the problem persists. With the uncompensated departure of Nacho Fernandez and the serious injury to young Joan Martinez (anterior cruciate ligament), Real Madrid’s rearguard is once again short-staffed. The situation has been made worse by a relapse in the form of Éder Militao.
Despite these setbacks, Real Madrid have no plans to recruit a central defender, either this winter or in the summer of 2025, as MARCA reports. This decision is based on a clear strategy: to rely on existing players and promising youngsters. Carlo Ancelotti’s coaching staff are optimistic about the return of Éder Militao, who is continuing his rehabilitation and could soon be back to his best. David Alaba, now fully fit, is once again establishing himself as a mainstay. As for Antonio Rüdiger, he is confirming his role as leader of the central hinge.
Rather than investing in a new player, Real Madrid are banking on the emergence of young talent from their youth ranks. Raúl Asencio, who has already broken into the first team, could prove a reliable option to bolster the defensive rotation. Other hopefuls such as Jacobo Ramon and Diego Aguado are also on the coaching staff’s radar.
Right-back priority for Real Madrid
While there are no plans to reinforce central defence, Real Madrid seem determined to strengthen the right-back position. The club is exploring a number of options, including Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold. Such a move would be aimed at remedying a persistent weakness since Dani Carvajal’s unfortunate injury.
Dani Carvajal hoje. 🤩🤍 pic.twitter.com/3kw6M1EBpr
— Um Madridista (@UmMadridistaa) January 24, 2025
In any case, by refusing to recruit a central defender, Real Madrid are taking a calculated risk. The club is counting on its experienced managers, the progress of its youngsters and Ancelotti’s tactical management to overcome the difficulties. If this gamble pays off, it will reinforce the club’s philosophy of favouring stability and in-house training. But the pressure is still firmly on the shoulders of the current defenders, who will have to prove that their confidence is deserved.
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