Real Betis defeat highlights Ancelotti’s over-reliance on two players | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s recent display against Real Betis was nothing short of disastrous. The team struggled to find any rhythm, and the absence of Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Dani Ceballos was glaring.

Without these three players, the squad lacked direction, creativity, and energy, making it clear how heavily they rely on certain individuals.

Carlo Ancelotti has not managed to keep the team performing at the highest level without two of its most influential players—Bellingham and Valverde. Both bring a combination of leadership, technical ability, and physical strength, which were sorely missed.

Looking ahead to the crucial fixture against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, the manager will have Valverde available again, but Bellingham remains sidelined due to suspension.

His absence is a significant blow, as he has been instrumental in controlling games and dictating the tempo in midfield.

Concern for Real Madrid

The situation raises concerns about Real Madrid’s ability to compete in multiple tournaments if they cannot maintain their level of performance without key players.

Dani Ceballos is out too. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

With a long season ahead, relying solely on the starting eleven is not a sustainable strategy. Squad depth is essential, but Ancelotti’s options in midfield have been severely limited.

Ceballos, one of the alternatives to strengthen the centre of the pitch, is set to miss two months due to injury, making things even more complicated.

Valverde’s return offers some hope, but the manager faces a crucial decision regarding his positioning.

Ancelotti can either deploy the Uruguayan on the right wing, where he has often played, or restore him to the midfield, where his dynamism and endurance could provide much-needed balance.

There’s a little relief

Given the struggles against Betis and the absence of Ceballos, shifting Valverde back to midfield seems the logical choice.

Bellingham’s importance to this team cannot be overstated. His ability to link up play, retain possession, and contribute defensively makes him a complete midfielder.

While Valverde also brings energy and versatility, his skill set differs from Bellingham’s. The real challenge for Ancelotti is finding solutions in midfield before Madrid’s lack of depth becomes a long-term problem.