The unknown of the merengue squad
Despite Carlo Ancelotti’s reassuring statements about the completion of signings, there is an undercurrent of concern. According to sources close to the club, the Italian coach feels the need to strengthen his line-up with at least one or two signings to be at the competitive level required by each tournament.
Gaps in defence: Ancelotti’s concern
Real Madrid have seen key players such as Toni Kroos and Nacho leave the squad without their departure being rewarded with new talent. This lack is especially critical in the defensive line, where Ancelotti has only Rüdiger, Alaba, Militao and Vallejo. This shortage is alarming, considering that last season, Alaba and Militao faced multiple injury problems.
Interest in Alessandro Bastoni
Ancelotti’s interest in Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni has caught the media’s attention. Bastoni, who has established himself as one of Europe’s top defenders in recent years, represents an attractive option for Madrid. However, the Italian club show no intention of giving up their best defender, and the cost of a transfer would be daunting for Los Blancos.
The physical state of Alaba and Militao: a source of anxiety
The doubts over the fitness of Alaba and Militao are a cause for concern for Ancelotti. Both players have been battling injuries that could impact their performance throughout the season. The Brazilian already showed performances below his capabilities in the previous edition, which intensifies the need for robust alternatives in defence.
The pressure on the bench
The atmosphere at the club seems vital and tense. Ancelotti, aware of the lack of defensive reinforcements, feels he is in a high-risk game. He does not want to repeat situations of the past where he was forced to improvise. On multiple occasions last season, he was forced to field Tchouaméni as a defender, a tactic that did not always work out favourably.
The future of the merengue defense
The question remains: will Florentino Perez accede to Ancelotti’s requests and look for a new centre-back? The answer to this question could shape the team’s fate this season. The urgency is palpable, and all eyes are on how events will unfold in the transfer market.
The truth is that if Madrid wants to remain competitive on all fronts, time to act is running out. The fans and the coaching staff hope that the right decisions are made before injuries put the stability of the team in trouble.