Real Madrid are already thinking about their next league fixture against Osasuna, an important match if they are to remain top of the table. But Carlo Ancelotti must also think about the return leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Manchester City, and that may mean that he makes some changes to the starting eleven that will be fielded in that match. With some injuries in the defense and a busy schedule, the Italian coach is considering how to manage the minutes of his players without losing effectiveness in the league.
Ancelotti values rotations but without excesses
Ancelotti’s team arrives after a key and important victory against City and a well-deserved day off. Although the games have taken their toll, Ancelotti does not want to make many changes to the starting lineup; he considers that La Liga is still one of the priorities. Some modifications in the lineup may occur to determine efforts and prevent physical risks.
Fran García could replace the exhausted Mendy at left back. Another possibility in the context of replacing Dani Ceballos in midfield could be Luka Modric. While Brahim Díaz could be the alternative to replace Rodrygo on the wing. Turkish winger Arda Güler, who is demanding more playing time, is also unlikely to get any minutes.
Despite these possible changes, Real Madrid cannot afford to relax. With Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona hot on their heels in the standings, any mistake could cost them dearly in the fight for the title. Osasuna, who are not playing consistent football, are a compact team at El Sadar, always competing at the highest level.
Ancelotti manages the injuries and looks after the physical condition of his squad
One of the biggest headaches for the Madrid coach will be managing the defensive casualties. Important players such as David Alaba, Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rüdiger continue to be sidelined. Of the aforementioned, Rüdiger and Alaba could be closer to returning, but their presence in the match against Osasuna is practically ruled out. This limits Ancelotti’s options even further and the possibility of repeating a pair of central defenders at a very busy time of the season, as the players’ fatigue shows.
In terms of preparation, the group returned to work with a first session focused on activation, possession and finishing, together with tactical work and small-sided games. The coaching team is confident that the players will be well prepared for the match, despite the effort in the Champions League.
A key match before the return leg against City
Madrid need the win after the setbacks in the league against Espanyol and Atlético. The visit to the Estadio Municipal de El Sadar is not going to be an easy task, but it will be a good opportunity to boost confidence before playing Manchester City again at the Santiago Bernabéu next Wednesday in the second leg of the Champions League playoff.
Ancelotti and his players are perfectly aware that every game counts and that they cannot afford to drop any points in the fight for the title. Obviously, although they also have their sights set on the Champions League, the first priority is to come away from their visit to El Sadar with the three points in their pocket and remain top of the league. With a good squad and players who are raring to go, the merengue team has a new test ahead of them with the firm intention of winning.