Real Madrid’s recent defeat to Barcelona in El Clasico highlighted many of the team’s shortcomings, with murmurs going around the team’s dissatisfaction towards physical preparations heading into games.
Real Madrid have also lacked depth, especially in defence. The absence of Dani Carvajal was felt against Barcelona as the wingers ran rings around the defence.
Real Madrid unlikely to sign new players in January
Despite mounting pressure on Real Madrid to reinforce their squad, the club have not changed their stance at all, reports AS.
The Spanish news publication suggests Real Madrid are still not in favour of signing new players in January, despite facing a series of injury woes.
The club have a strict policy of not spending too much cash in the middle of the season. In addition, they are unsure about their options in January.
While Real Madrid have been linked with moves for Alphonso Davies and Trent Alexander-Arnold, both players could be better deals in the summer, when their contract comes to an end.
Ancelotti hesitant on utilising young players
One key aspect that Barcelona have clearly been better at compared to Real Madrid is utilising young players.
While Barça have benefitted from La Masia greatly, not many Real Madrid youth talents have made it into the first team in recent years.
This is largely due to Carlo Ancelotti’s apprehension towards using younger players in the team. A case in point is Arda Guler, who has struggled to get regular game-time despite performing well.
Ancelotti, for his part, is unlikely to change his stance, meaning Real Madrid will continue to count on their experienced players to fill in for the injured stars, as opposed to trying their luck through a few academy talents.