As Real Madrid wrapped up their final match of 2024 with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Sevilla FC at the Santiago Bernabéu, the aftermath of Carlo Ancelotti’s decisions has sparked significant discussions. The Italian coach’s bold tactical moves highlighted his dissatisfaction with two of his key players, setting the stage for an intriguing restart in 2025.

Following the match, which marked the 18th round of La Liga, Ancelotti allowed his players a brief respite to celebrate the holidays. Yet, the game itself unveiled much about the coach’s evolving strategy and his apparent discontent with the defensive options at his disposal. Surprisingly, the Italian tactician fielded midfielders Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga in defensive roles, a choice that underlined his loss of faith in the club’s natural left-back options, Ferland Mendy and Fran García.

The Left-Back Conundrum

Mendy and García, who were expected to solidify Real Madrid’s left flank this season, have failed to meet expectations. While Mendy’s early-season performances were riddled with inconsistency, García, despite initial promise, faltered notably against Rayo Vallecano in a dramatic 3-3 draw. This left Ancelotti with a dilemma—persist with underperforming left-backs or find innovative solutions.

During the Sevilla match, Camavinga, a versatile midfielder, was deployed as a left-back to neutralize the threat posed by Sevilla’s dynamic winger, Dodi Lukebakio. The decision paid off handsomely. Camavinga not only kept Lukebakio at bay but also contributed offensively with a crucial assist. This performance has raised questions about the long-term roles of Mendy and García in the squad.

A Bold Tactical Shift

Ancelotti’s decision to rely on Camavinga, despite the Frenchman’s primary role in midfield, showcased his willingness to prioritize form and adaptability over positional orthodoxy. Sources close to the team revealed that this shift was driven by a desire to address Real Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities, which have been exposed in high-stakes matches against elite opponents like Barcelona, Liverpool, and Lille.

Camavinga’s ability to excel in an unfamiliar role has impressed fans and pundits alike. His defensive solidity and offensive contributions against Sevilla have reignited hopes of resolving the team’s left-flank woes. This move is also a testament to Ancelotti’s trust in the young French international, who continues to prove his mettle in challenging situations.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With Real Madrid set to resume their campaign in January, Ancelotti’s tactical decisions will likely shape the team’s trajectory for the rest of the season. Until the anticipated arrival of Alphonso Davies, who is rumored to join the club in the summer, Camavinga seems poised to play a pivotal role in the defensive lineup, particularly in critical fixtures.

While this decision bodes well for Camavinga’s development, it spells uncertainty for Mendy and García. Both players must step up significantly if they are to reclaim their spots in the starting lineup. The competition for places is fierce, and Ancelotti’s recent choices suggest that he will not hesitate to bench underperforming players, regardless of their experience or status.

A Defining Year for Real Madrid

As 2025 approaches, Real Madrid’s ambitions remain as high as ever. The club is in contention for multiple trophies, and defensive stability will be crucial in their quest for silverware. Ancelotti’s gamble to deploy midfielders in defensive roles may seem unconventional, but it has the potential to address lingering issues effectively.

Camavinga’s composure, versatility, and tactical intelligence make him a standout candidate for this transitional phase. However, the long-term solution lies in reinforcing the squad with specialist defenders, which the club is expected to prioritize in the upcoming transfer windows.

The Players’ Response

For Mendy and García, the onus is on them to regain the trust of their manager. Both players have shown flashes of brilliance in the past but need to deliver consistently to secure their futures at one of the world’s most demanding clubs. With Ancelotti known for his pragmatic approach, there is little room for complacency.

Conclusion

Carlo Ancelotti’s decisions have always been driven by the pursuit of excellence, and his recent tactical shifts are no exception. The Sevilla match highlighted his ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges, and it set the tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.

As the team gears up for the second half of the season, all eyes will be on how Ancelotti’s strategies unfold and whether his faith in players like Camavinga will pay dividends in Real Madrid’s quest for glory.