Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical shift: Adapting star’s position to navigate Real Madrid’s injury crisis

Carlo Ancelotti’s confidence in Fede Valverde is reaching new heights, evident in the tactical demands placed on the Uruguayan midfielder.

Following injuries to Tchouameni and Camavinga, Ancelotti has urged Valverde to temporarily forget about scoring goals and focus on defensive contributions, especially keeping a close eye on Toni Kroos.

Valverde’s role now involves aiding the team in recovery, defensive support, and acting as Kroos’s legs and lungs.

He is tasked with covering areas where Kroos may struggle physically, allowing Toni to handle ball distribution, both short and long. In the recent match against Napoli, the specialized praise for Kroos as a game facilitator was significantly influenced by Valverde’s dirty work.

Since Camavinga’s injury on November 15, Ancelotti sought solutions. Valverde, initially seen as Tchouameni’s replacement, found himself playing alongside Kroos in a defensive midfield duo. While this tactical adjustment may impact the team’s offensive capabilities, Ancelotti values Valverde’s collective sense and defensive sacrifice.

Valverde is no stranger to this position, having played there for Peñarol, the Uruguayan national team, and Real Madrid. Under Marcelo Bielsa’s guidance in the national team, he has experimented in this role, where Bielsa imparts his tactical wisdom. Ancelotti’s request aligns with Bielsa’s orientation, albeit with some nuanced differences.

While Valverde’s offensive contributions may diminish, his physical prowess allows him to fill the void left by Tchouameni and Camavinga. Ancelotti believes in this tactical shift, and Valverde, often a ‘soldier’ for the team, is expected to adapt successfully. His physicality makes him the closest match to Tchouameni and Camavinga’s style in the absence of these key players.

In essence, Ancelotti’s emphasis on Valverde’s defensive role signifies a strategic reshaping of the team, prioritizing stability over offensive flair. This season, Valverde’s significance lies not in his goal tally but in his positional adaptability and defensive contributions, demonstrating Ancelotti’s astute understanding of midfield dynamics.

Source: Relevo