Ancelotti testing Real Madrid mainstay in a makeshift position ahead of Stuttgart clash | OneFootball

According to journalist Jose Felix Diaz’s report in MARCA, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is experimenting with Dani Carvajal as a centre-back ahead of their UEFA Champions League tie against Stuttgart.

This move comes as Ancelotti looks to cover for regular centre-back Eder Militao, who has been experiencing some discomfort since last Saturday night. Concerns about Militao’s condition prompted the club’s medical team to conduct tests on Monday.

However, the results showed no signs of injury or complications related to his previous knee problem, which had kept him sidelined for a period last season.

Militao could be rested

The discomfort Militao is feeling seems to be a result of the physical toll from recent matches, rather than a serious issue.

While there is no indication of a new injury, the medical team has advised caution, which is why Ancelotti is considering giving the Brazilian defender a rest for the upcoming game.

Despite the mild concerns, Militao is included in the squad list for the match, although his starting place is now uncertain.

Dani Carvajal could play alongside Antonio Rudiger in defence against Stuttgart. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images)

In preparation for this possibility, Ancelotti has been trying out different tactical options during training sessions. One of the most notable changes is his decision to test Carvajal in the centre-back role.

The Spanish defender, who usually plays as a right-back, was paired with Antonio Rudiger in recent training sessions. If Ancelotti chooses to rest Militao, Carvajal could line up alongside Rudiger in the heart of the defence, with Lucas Vazquez filling in at right-back.

What about Tchouameni?

There had been some speculation that Aurelien Tchouameni might step into the centre-back position if Militao is unavailable. After all, the French midfielder has played in that role before, including during some games last season.

However, with Eduardo Camavinga currently injured, Ancelotti is reluctant to move Tchouameni out of the midfield. Camavinga’s absence leaves a gap in the middle of the park, and Ancelotti does not want to further weaken that area by shifting him into defence.

Ancelotti’s decision to trial Carvajal in a central defensive position highlights his tactical flexibility and willingness to adapt to the circumstances.

Carvajal, as vice-captain of the team, brings leadership and experience, and while centre-back is not his natural position, his versatility could prove valuable in this crucial Champions League tie.