New Delhi: Real Madrid were expected to be one of the most formidable sides in Europe this season. The addition of Kylian Mbappe to a team already stacked with talent should have made them an even stronger force in both La Liga and the Champions League. Yet, despite the hype, things have not gone as smoothly as anticipated.
A string of disappointing performances and results have left fans questioning whether they have what it takes to succeed this season. From Mbappé’s struggles to defensive frailties, there are several reasons behind Madrid’s current issues. Here’s a look at the key factors causing concern at the Santiago Bernabeu.
1. Kylian Mbappe struggling to fit in
Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid looks dejected during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between LOSC Lille and Real Madrid C.F. at Stade Pierre Mauroy on October 02, 2024 in Lille, France. (Photo by Michael Regan – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappe was meant to be the missing piece for Real Madrid. His signing caused a lot of excitement, as many believed he would form a lethal partnership with Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham. While he has scored goals—eight goals and two assists in 14 games—he still hasn’t fully clicked with the team.
Mbappe often drifts to the left, which creates congestion in the final third, making it harder for him to link up with his teammates. Additionally, reports suggest that he isn’t putting in enough work off the ball, which is important for a team like Madrid that relies on teamwork. While his individual performances are strong, there are concerns about whether he can adapt to Madrid’s system and contribute more to the team beyond his goals.
2. Defensive issues persist
⚪️🔓 Real Madrid have conceded 17 goals in 16 games this season in all competitions.
8 goals conceded in the last 3 games so far. pic.twitter.com/QasoLJ1sV3
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 5, 2024
Another major concern for Madrid is their defence. While the team has dominated possession in most games, they have conceded 15 goals in 14 matches—a poor record for a club like Madrid. Mistakes from defenders have been too frequent, with players like Ferland Mendy and Antonio Rudiger not playing up to their usual standards. Eder Militão is still recovering from a long injury, while right-back remains a problem after Dani Carvajal’s injury.
Ancelotti must improve the defensive unit and ensure that his players work better together. Without a strong defence, Madrid’s attacking power is often wasted, especially in key games when they need to maintain control. Until these defensive issues are fixed, Madrid’s chances of winning trophies could be at risk.
3. Carlo Ancelotti’s limited use of young players
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – JULY 02: Arda Guler of Turkey during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Austria and Turkiye at Football Stadium Leipzig on July 02, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images)
One of the surprises this season is Carlo Ancelotti’s reluctance to give younger players enough chances. While stars like Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham have been excellent, others like Arda Guler, who was expected to make a big impact, have struggled to get regular game time. Guler, an exciting young talent, hasn’t had the opportunity to show what he can do on the pitch.
Ancelotti has often relied on experienced players, even when younger players could have brought fresh energy to the team. Given the struggles Madrid are facing, it may be time for Ancelotti to trust the younger players more and give them the chance to make a difference in key games.
4. Missing Toni Kroos: Lack of control in midfield
Real Madrid come out on top against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League final. (Photo: Getty)
Toni Kroos’s departure from the team has proven to be more important than many expected. The German midfielder was known for controlling the game with his calm passing and ability to dictate the pace of matches. Without Kroos, Madrid has struggled to control games as they used to. Players like Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham have done well, but they don’t have Kroos’s ability to slow down the game and dictate play.
Madrid’s midfield has become more frantic, leading to mistakes and making the team more vulnerable to counter-attacks. Ancelotti will need to adjust his tactics to make up for Kroos’s absence or find a player who can fill that leadership role in the midfield.
5. Lack of team harmony
Real Madrid mananger Carlo Ancelotti (Photo credits: @FabrizioRomano ‘X’)
Despite having star players, there seems to be a lack of unity in the squad this season. Reports suggest that Madrid’s players haven’t always been on the same page, and there have been moments of frustration during matches. This is unlike the tightly-knit squad that has helped Madrid win major trophies in recent years.
Ancelotti is known for managing big egos and keeping the atmosphere positive within the team. However, this season, there seems to be a disconnect. Whether it’s the arrival of Mbappe, the tension around Vinicius Jr.’s Ballon d’Or snub, or the struggles of new players like Guler, Madrid’s team dynamics have been off. Until they can get back to working as a cohesive unit, their troubles are likely to continue.
Take a look at the reasons why the ongoing struggles have been an impactful issue for Real Madrid. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
