Carlo Ancelotti plans to use defensive target in a different role to retain current squad – report | OneFootball

It is harder to stay on top than it is to make the climb. Replicating their success from last season is bound to be an arduous challenge for Real Madrid as they aspire to retain their status in both Spain and Europe.

However, that is precisely why the Merengues aspire to bring fresh blood into the squad and revamp the team with a new outlook.

Having already wrapped up the signings of Endrick and Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid are looking forward to fortifying the defensive line as well.

To that end, Leny Yoro and Alphonso Davies remain high on the club’s wishlist, both with strong prospects of donning the royal white jersey this year.

Davies’ arrival will not affect Fran Garcia’s role

Indeed, it has been heavily speculated that Davies’ potential arrival would force one of Fran Garcia or Ferland Mendy to hit the exit door due to the surplus of options in the left-back position.

Even so, according to SPORT, if Real Madrid sign the Canadian full-back, Ancelotti would still be open to keeping Garcia in the squad.

Carlo Ancelotti would like to work with Alphonso Davies. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

This is because Carlo Ancelotti values Davies’ potential higher up the pitch. He could be deployed as a wing-back in midfield or as an outright winger, something he grew accustomed to at Bayern Munich.

The 23-year-old, known for his attacking prowess, could push forward and hold width, allowing Ancelotti to retain Mendy and Garcia as full-backs.

In fact, Real Madrid got a good glimpse of Davies’ offensive strengths when he scored against Los Blancos in the Champions League this season.

Increasing the squad’s depth

Moreover, Ancelotti aims to strengthen the squad’s depth, especially after the barrage of injuries the club suffered last season.

Following the departures of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Toni Kroos, Nacho, and Joselu, the team has seen a reduction in personnel.

With the additions of Mbappe and Endrick, the squad now stands at 21 members. Ancelotti aims to finalize signings for Yoro and Davies, potentially bringing the roster to 23, matching last year’s numbers.