How Ancelotti’s obsession with balance has turned into frustration for Real Madrid | OneFootball

As the current season nears its conclusion, it has become increasingly clear that Carlo Ancelotti’s efforts to achieve balance within the Real Madrid squad have not gone according to plan.

From the very beginning, the Italian has often spoken about the importance of finding equilibrium between his team’s attacking prowess and defensive stability.

However, despite his continued emphasis on this aspect, the desired balance has remained elusive throughout the season.

Ancelotti’s repeated reference to balance has almost become a theme of the campaign, as he continues to express concerns about his team’s ability to maintain consistency in their performances.

Despite the clear attacking strengths within the squad, Real Madrid’s vulnerability in defence has left Ancelotti’s ambitions hanging in the balance.

Attacking brilliance undermined by defensive frailties

Real Madrid have enough firepower in attack, but their defense is crumbles. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

In their recent encounter against Leganes, Real Madrid’s offensive abilities were on full display.

The team registered a total of 24 shots on goal, with 10 of those attempts being on target. Overall, they average 10.4 shots per game in La Liga.

To put things in perspective, Barcelona’s number for the same parameter is a mere 7.9. In the UEFA Champions League, the number rises to 13.4 for Real Madrid and for Barcelona, it is 10.4.

From a purely attacking standpoint, Ancelotti’s men look capable of overwhelming their opponents. However, the impressive attacking output is ultimately overshadowed by glaring defensive issues.

Despite their dominance in attack, Real Madrid struggled to cope with Leganes’ quick transitions. Every counter-attack from the opposition appeared to cause chaos within Ancelotti’s defensive setup.

The lack of cohesion between the various departments of the team was evident, as the forwards were often slow to track back and provide defensive support.

The midfield found itself incapable of halting Leganes’ advancing players effectively. This lack of defensive coordination exposed the backline, leaving the defenders under immense pressure.

Even when opportunities to make decisive tackles or interceptions presented themselves, the defenders appeared sluggish and unconvincing.

Ancelotti’s continued frustration

Carlo Ancelotti’s frustration is understood. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Ancelotti’s concern over the lack of balance is not new. Throughout the season, he has often spoken about the importance of finding the right mix between attacking intensity and defensive solidity.

However, his comments following the match once again highlighted his frustration with the ongoing issue.

According to Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s performance was not entirely poor. He acknowledged that the team controlled the game well in certain aspects, especially during the first half.

However, the defensive vulnerabilities continued to undermine their overall performance, resulting in goals being conceded that did not reflect their dominance in possession.

The difference between last season and now

Ancelotti has struggled to find the balance this season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

It is worth noting that Real Madrid did manage to find a certain level of balance during the previous season. The team displayed an ability to control matches effectively while also providing sufficient defensive cover.

However, replicating that same level of stability this season has proven to be an elusive task.

The difference between the two campaigns is evident in the number of goals conceded and the manner in which defensive errors have continued to surface.

Last season, in La Liga, Real Madrid conceded 26 goals in 38 matches. That is an average of 0.6 goals per match.

So far this season, they have let in 29 goals in as many matches already, meaning that they are averaging a goal conceded in every league match.

Lack of balance could prove costly

Real Madrid could end up suffering. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

As the season approaches its final stages, the lack of balance continues to pose a significant threat to Real Madrid’s aspirations.

If the defensive issues are not addressed soon, the consequences could be severe, as the team is still alive in every major competition.

Without a more organised and disciplined approach to defending, Real Madrid’s ambitions could be derailed by their own vulnerabilities.

Ancelotti’s determination and his way of fixing this ongoing problem will be crucial. Whether he can finally achieve the elusive balance he has been chasing all season remains to be seen.

But one thing is clear—Real Madrid’s success depends heavily on finding the right formula to bring stability to their performances.