Carlo Ancelotti’s clever rotation could define Real Madrid’s crucial month | OneFootball

Real Madrid face a challenging schedule this month, which demands smart squad rotation by Carlo Ancelotti.

The team has crucial fixtures ahead, including high-stakes encounters against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City. Maintaining peak performance will require careful management of player fitness and form.

In defence, Ancelotti has limited options. Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger are unavailable, while Aurelien Tchouameni continues to raise doubts.

Left-back duties have alternated between Fran Garcia and Ferland Mendy, with Garcia preferred for more manageable games and Mendy taking on tougher opponents. Ancelotti may also consider starting David Alaba to evaluate his recovery progress.

What about midfield?

In midfield, Federico Valverde might be due for a much-needed rest. The Uruguayan has played relentlessly, showing signs of fatigue in recent games, including against Espanyol.

Luka Modric, Dani Ceballos, Arda Guler, and Brahim Diaz are all available as alternatives to cover the midfield responsibilities.

Carlo Ancelotti must rotate his players heavily this month. (Photo by OSCAR DEL POZO/AFP via Getty Images)

Eduardo Camavinga is another player under close watch. The Frenchman is recovering from a muscle injury to his left leg—the same issue that sidelined him earlier in the season.

Although he made a miraculous recovery in 15 days during the first instance, his return now would only be 20 days post-injury. Rushing his comeback could pose significant risks.

Then there’s attack

In attack, Vinicius Jr. is expected to play a key role. Having featured in only two of the last five matches, he is among the freshest players in the squad.

Brahim may also get the nod after starting on the bench against Espanyol. Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappe have all had a heavy workload recently.

Ancelotti may decide to rest Valverde and Bellingham again, as he did during the Copa tie against Celta, possibly giving Mbappe a chance to replace Rodrygo, who has been in sensational form.

Ancelotti’s strategic rotations will be crucial in going through this intense fixture period and keeping Real Madrid competitive on all fronts.