Real Madrid stands atop LaLiga with a 24-point lead and only one defeat to its name, a setback that felt symbolic because it came in the Madrid derby against Atletico. In the White House, even smaller disruptions ripple through weeks of talk, yet the team stayed solid at home and bounced back with a strong performance against Napoli in the Champions League.
Carlo Ancelotti has resolved several injury concerns, some of them significant. Courtois remains sidelined, while new innovations have been tried in goal and defense. Yet players like Rodrygo, Camavinga, and Tchouaméni have not yet been fully convinced, and the group has used rallies with their teams to air frustrations, all within a framework of correction and new roles. Kroos and Modrić have reflected on their reduced prominence and adjusted to the evolving squad dynamics.
While Real Madrid have one of the poorest scoring records in Europe, former players are delivering on the pitch
Rodrygo: twenty-one shots on target, one goal so far
These patterns are familiar in the senior dressing room and have long been part of Ancelotti’s approach to addressing recurring issues. The coach is navigating a season that can demand departures and strategic shifts, yet he is managing structural challenges, including the absence of a traditional center forward, despite Joselu’s solid form.
Rodrygo has taken nineteen shots last season and faced a call to step up this year. He has accumulated twenty-one shots on target so far, eight of which found the goal, with most efforts sharp and concentrated, save for the successful strike against Athletic Club.
“I’ve always said I can play on the wings. I don’t enjoy playing as a number nine, even though I sometimes have to,” Rodrygo explained during the international window. “In Brazil I can move all over the field, and that flexibility helps my game. It’s crucial because it reduces the risk of being replaced.”
Camavinga: “I’m a team player, and I do what is asked of me”
The forward’s role is shaped by the tactical plan, which could influence selections for Brazil. The changes at Real Madrid have also sparked debate in the French camp, with Camavinga and Tchouaméni navigating expectations from national teams.
“I don’t like playing as a winger, but I’ve spoken with Ancelotti. The club comes first, and I’m a team player. If they ask me to adapt, I’ll be there—doing what’s needed even if it isn’t my preference,” Camavinga said. The former Rennes man has featured this season against Girona and Napoli, sometimes in the back line as needed.
Ancelotti successfully broke the diamond and reshaped the roles of Bellingham and Camavinga
In the past, Ancelotti transitioned Ferland Mendy back into the lineup, but injuries halted his consistency. Real Madrid strengthened with Fran Garcia in the summer, and while the Spaniard made his first appearance for the club, his form has yet to fully convince in a three-competition context.
Tchouaméni: “My father says the media always moves in the wrong direction”
Camavinga started as a substitute in the Netherlands game as Deschamps focused the midfield, and a successful adjustment saw Tchouaméni deployed as a centre-back in a match against Osasuna due to resource constraints. With Militao sidelined and Alaba nearing return, Ancelotti was forced to innovate defensively.
Tchouaméni set a new benchmark with his performance, though he hopes this remains an exception. “My father used to tell me the media sometimes moves backward. I’m glad with how I performed, and I prefer playing in midfield. If the team needs me in defense, I’ll adapt,” remarked the young midfielder, whose attitude reflects a flexible squad mindset.
Modrić’s limited minutes have also drawn attention. In recent matches, the Croatian captain has appeared off the pace, occasionally leaving him with a reduced role. Ancelotti acknowledged frustration but celebrated the victory in Naples, where Modrić played a key part in steering Real Madrid back to Europe’s forefront.
Kroos’ long rest and Modrić’s steady rhythm
Modrić’s reduced involvement—no more than a few hundred minutes this season—has affected the Croatian squad. Coach Zlatko Dalić has noted that both Modrić and Kovacic lack consistent rhythm, a factor the national team cannot ignore as Euro 2024 approaches. Croatia’s campaign in Group D has shifted after a couple of defeats, leaving questions about minutes for Real Madrid’s veteran midfielders as the tournament looms.
Ancelotti’s past methods and outside interest pull Modrić away from Bernabéu
“I’m focused on preparing to play at my best,” said the midfielder, who has been with the club for a long time. Resting, recovery, and the consistent quality of the ball are all part of maintaining his level. While some critics advocate for a more radical model, the squad remains committed to a carefully managed approach and disciplined minutes distribution.