How Ancelotti has satisfied Real Madrid’s two biggest personalities and kept the peace | OneFootball

At the start of the season, Real Madrid faced a significant challenge regarding the integration of two of the most talented players in world football: Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe.

Both players are highly skilled and have similar playing styles, and they share the same position in the attack. This created a potential conflict of egos, as both wanted to be the star and play in the same role on the left wing.

However, Carlo Ancelotti has managed to handle this situation with great skill and foresight, ensuring that both players feel valued and are contributing effectively to the team’s success.

How did Ancelotti manage the situation?

Ancelotti began the season by positioning Vinicius on the left wing and Mbappe as the central forward, or No. 9.

However, as the French forward struggled to find the back of the net in the early stages of the season, Ancelotti made the tactical decision to switch things up.

In the matches against Osasuna and Leganes, Mbappe was moved to the left-wing position, allowing him and Vinicius to rotate freely in the attack. This shift not only accommodated both players but also allowed for a more fluid attacking style.

By strengthening the midfield and shifting some responsibilities, Ancelotti gave both Vinicius and Mbappe the freedom to explore different attacking options.

Furthermore, Jude Bellingham, who has not made the desired impact so far this season, was tasked with a deeper role in midfield, providing stability while allowing the two wingers to focus on creating and finishing chances.

Ancelotti deserves the credit

Carlo Ancelotti has maintained the balance. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Ancelotti’s ability to manage the playing time and egos of both Vinicius and Mbappe has also been key to maintaining harmony within the squad.

The manager has ensured that both players feel important and are regularly involved in key moments, but also that they are rested when necessary.

For instance, during the Osasuna match, Vinicius was substituted after completing a hat-trick, while Mbappe stayed on the pitch in search of his own goal.

On the other hand, in the Leganes match, Mbappe, having already scored, was substituted, and Vinicius remained on the pitch in search of his goal.

These tactical decisions were not based on physical fatigue because if that were case, Vinicius should have gone off considering his national team commitment.

Instead, they were motivated by Ancelotti’s desire to keep both players happy and ensure that they are given the opportunity to shine.

Can anyone else do it?

Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe are begining to connect. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Ancelotti’s careful management of Vinicius and Mbappe has resulted in a balanced partnership that benefits Real Madrid both on and off the pitch.

While the players still compete for the same position, they have learned to work together, creating a dynamic partnership that provides Real Madrid with a lethal attacking threat.

The team’s attacking potential has never been stronger, and with Vinicius and Mbappe combining their skills, there is the possibility of a new era of success for the club.

This situation is an example of Ancelotti’s managerial expertise. The decision to bring in two star players with similar playing styles could have caused problems, but Ancelotti has handled it masterfully, ensuring both players have the opportunity to contribute while keeping their egos in check.

Real Madrid now have one of the most potent attacking duos in world football, and if this partnership continues to flourish, it could lead to even greater successes in the future.