Real Madrid’s Ancelotti Abandons Fatigue Tackling Plan
Real Madrid Faces Longest Season in Club History
Real Madrid is gearing up for what could be their longest season ever, with a grueling schedule that could span up to 72 games and last 11 months if they make it to the final of the Club World Cup next July. Manager Carlo Ancelotti had devised a plan to combat fatigue, but injuries and international commitments have forced him to rethink his strategy.
Injury Crisis Forces Ancelotti to Adapt
The club is currently facing an injury crisis, with key players like Brahim Diaz, Dani Ceballos, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga sidelined for months. This has prompted Ancelotti to revise his approach to managing player workload and recovery.
Challenges with International Duty
Ancelotti had initially planned to give players a three-day break after international matches to ensure they had adequate rest. However, the quick return of Vinicius Junior and Eder Militao to the starting lineup after Brazil duty, along with injuries to other players, has disrupted this strategy.
Strain on Squad Depth
The concept of providing ‘mini-holidays’ to players to prevent muscle strain is at risk due to ongoing injury concerns. Ancelotti has been hesitant to rely on Real Madrid Castilla players, emphasizing his focus on winning games over developing young talent.
Hope on the Horizon
The imminent return of Aurelien Tchouameni and Jude Bellingham will provide much-needed relief for Ancelotti, as they are set to feature in the upcoming Champions League match against Stuttgart. This should help alleviate the burden on key players like Fede Valverde and Luka Modric, although squad rotation remains a challenge.