Maka: Ancelotti Considering Tactical Change; Vinicius and Mbappe May Compete for a Left-Wing Spot

The addition of Mbappe seems to have made it harder for Real Madrid to secure victories. Marca believes that Ancelotti may consider switching back to a 4-4-2 formation to re-establish balance within the team’s setup.

Mbappe’s arrival has not made Real Madrid stronger, on the contrary, they have lost the style of play they had last season. The team is now faced with the need to improve, with both the coaching staff and players striving to find their rhythm and synergy.

The first conclusion Ancelotti has drawn is that Real Madrid needs to revert to using four midfielders to regain balance in the center of the pitch. However, this formation will not be used in every match. For the upcoming game against Atalanta, Real Madrid might make such an adjustment. In the match against Stuttgart, the team created many opportunities, with as many as 19 shots, but also lost possession 17 times. The purpose of fielding four midfielders is not to strengthen defense but to stabilize the formation.

Once the switch to a four-midfielder formation is made, one forward player will have to be sacrificed. Mbappe and Vinicius may compete for a spot on the left wing. Bellingham will be pulled back into the center, just like last season, to take charge of offensive organization. Moreover, Ancelotti hopes his front-line attackers will participate more in defensive duties, a trend already evident in the match against Stuttgart.