Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is not typically known for being sidelined due to injuries. Last season, while playing for Paris Saint-Germain, he missed only one match because of injury.
However, it appears that a recent knock sustained during a match against Alaves has aggravated his condition, leading to his absence from the highly anticipated derby against Atlético Madrid.
This situation places significant pressure on manager Carlo Ancelotti, who now faces the challenge of adjusting his tactics for one of the most crucial games of the season.
The first option for Ancelotti
In Mbappe’s absence, Ancelotti has various options at his disposal within the Real Madrid squad. One of the most straightforward solutions would be to position Rodrygo as a centre forward, allowing Arda Guler to take the right-wing position.
This strategy is not unfamiliar, as Ancelotti has previously experimented with similar formations.
Earlier in the season, during a match against Espanyol, he deployed Guler on the right while Rodrygo played on the left, a move prompted by Vinicius’ substitution rather than Mbappé’s absence, as the French star was already starting in that game.
The more familiar option
While this approach seems logical, it is important to consider that Ancelotti may draw from his experiences from the previous season. Last season, without Mbappe, Jude Bellingham often took on the centre-forward role, and he performed remarkably well in that position.
However, Toni Kroos, who was a key player in that setup, is no longer part of the squad, which may influence Ancelotti’s decision to keep Bellingham in the midfield rather than moving him to a more advanced role.
The timely return of Eduardo Camavinga, along with the experienced Luka Modric, may also play a critical role in Ancelotti’s considerations when determining whether to shift Bellingham forward.
Ultimately, the choices Ancelotti makes in response to Mbappe’s injury will significantly affect the starting XI he fields against Atletico Madrid.
Last season, the Madrid neighbours proved to be a tough opponent for Real Madrid, defeating them in both encounters at the Metropolitano Stadium. This added pressure makes Ancelotti’s decisions even more pivotal as he aims to secure a vital victory.