With just days to go before the 2025 Copa del Rey final against Barça, Carlo Ancelotti is facing some big decisions. Following Sunday night’s match against Athletic Bilbao, the performance of one key player has clearly shown which choice should be made in attack for this Clásico.
Already beaten twice this season by their Catalan rivals, Real Madrid still have two opportunities to level the score. Before the return leg in La Liga next month, Spain’s two biggest clubs will face off this Saturday in the Copa del Rey final. For this highly anticipated clash in Seville, Los Blancos aim to win their first Clásico of the season, secure another trophy, and restore confidence heading into the final stretch of the title race. Walking a tightrope, Carlo Ancelotti will need to deliver something special.
Rodrygo – the forward who’s lost his spot for the Clásico
Aware of the pressure he’s under, the Madrid boss adjusted his plans on Sunday against Bilbao in an attempt to avoid defeat. Taking advantage in part of Kylian Mbappé’s absence, Ancelotti reverted to the 4-4-2 formation that proved successful last season.
“My favourite system is the 4-4-2 because it’s the best defensively. That doesn’t mean I have to play four midfielders. In fact, we’ve used it with Vini Jr. on one side and Rodrygo on the other. You can also play a 4-4-2 with six midfielders, since two of them can push forward in attack,” he explained in his post-match press conference.
In this system, which brought greater defensive stability, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes led the attack. While the number 7 impressed with a display full of energy, the other disappointed. In line with his recent performances in a Real Madrid shirt, Rodrygo had little impact against the Basque defence. Often too far from the penalty area, the Brazilian forward struggled to make his presence felt. And on the few chances he did get, he was wasteful.
Mbappé to replace Rodrygo
Due to his performance, Ancelotti quickly replaced him in the second half. Given the context and the high stakes of Saturday’s clash against Barça, it now seems almost certain Rodrygo Goes will not start. If Ancelotti sticks with the 4-4-2, which appears to be working well, Vinicius and Mbappé will likely lead the line. At this stage, pleasing everyone in the dressing room is no longer an option.
If a player isn’t performing, Ancelotti must be willing to bench him and give others a chance. In recent days, the 65-year-old coach seems to have taken that lesson on board, giving more playing time to Endrick. Next Saturday, a poor tactical or personnel decision could seal the Italian manager’s fate. Under immense pressure, Carlo Ancelotti must win the 2025 Copa del Rey to have any hope of staying on beyond the Club World Cup — and perhaps even completing the final year of his contract.
Leave a Reply