Real Madrid is facing a major defensive crisis ahead of their crucial Champions League match against Manchester City. A string of injuries, including key players like Carvajal, Rüdiger, Alaba, Militão and Vázquez, has left Ancelotti with a depleted backline. The manager is forced to rely on inexperienced players and even midfielders like Valverde and Tchouaméni in unfamiliar defensive positions. Despite the challenges, Madrid remains top of La Liga and in contention for multiple titles.
Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde jumping over Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios during a Spanish league match at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on February 8th, 2025. Photograph: JAavier SOoriano/AFPDani Carvajal , Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba , Éder Militão and Marcelo were in the team photo before the Madrid derby at the Bernabéu on Saturday night. A seriously impressive defence, it was just a pity they weren’t playing.
That is according to the coach anyway. In fact Ancelotti also has Jesús Vallejo, the strange case of the central defender included in every squad, who sits on the bench every game but never comes on and doesn’t get mentioned by his manager. It doesn’t get bigger: these teams have met four times in the last five seasons and each time the winner, usually Madrid, has lifted the trophy. That is the theory, at least.
That makes Tchouaméni’s move to defence, instead of a protective role in front, significant. It makes Valverde playing at full-back even more significant; if there is a player that can cover those wide spaces, plugging endless gaps, it is him. It also leaves Madrid with few central midfield options: Dani Ceballos, Luka Modric and Eduardo Camavinga, who is returning from injury.
REAL MADRID MANCHESTER CITY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE INJURIES DEFENSIVE CRISIS CARVAJAL RÜDIGER ALABA MILITÃO VAZQUEZ ANCELOTTI
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Guardiola: No Hard Feelings Towards Madrid Despite Ballon d'Or BoycottManchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the lingering tension from Real Madrid's boycott of the Ballon d'Or ceremony last year, stating there are no hard feelings. City and Madrid face off in the Champions League play-off round, renewing their intense rivalry. Guardiola acknowledges the threat posed by Real's attacking stars, including Vinicius Junior, but remains confident in his team's ability to progress.
Read more »
Kyle Walker's Departure from Manchester City Sparks Tabloid FrenzyThe article discusses Kyle Walker's decision to leave Manchester City and the media's obsession with his personal life rather than his on-field achievements. It criticizes the tabloid culture that focuses on gossip and speculation surrounding Walker's relationships and personal choices, neglecting his significant contributions to football.
Read more »
Premier League wrap: Brentford hit back from two down to take point against Manchester CityReece James scores stoppage-time free-kick to rescue Chelsea a point; Potter gets first win at West Ham
Read more »
Leyton Orient stun Derby to set up Manchester City FA Cup clashLeyton Orient beat Derby County 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to book a fourth-round FA Cup tie against Manchester City. Substitute Zech Obiero scored the winning penalty for the League One side after a thrilling encounter.
Read more »
Erling Haaland Signs New Nine-and-a-Half-Year Contract at Manchester CityManchester City striker Erling Haaland has extended his contract with the club until 2034. The new deal is a major boost for City, who have struggled on the pitch this season. Haaland's impressive goal-scoring record and continued commitment to the club have cemented his status as a key player.
Read more »
Erling Haaland Extends Manchester City Contract Until 2034Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has signed a new contract with the club, extending his stay until 2034. The deal, worth around £500,000 per week, is the longest agreed by a player in English domestic competition.
Read more »