Real Madrid coach not convinced by makeshift defensive pairing after Rudiger injury | OneFootball

Real Madrid faces a defensive crisis as Antonio Rüdiger is sidelined with a torn hamstring, expected to miss crucial matches including the Madrid derby and the Champions League playoff against Manchester City.

The injury, confirmed by an MRI following the game against Espanyol, has thrown a wrench into Ancelotti’s plans during this pivotal phase of the season.

The absence of Rüdiger leaves Carlo Ancelotti with a significant dilemma at the back. With Militao also out and Alaba only just returning from injury, the Italian coach is forced to consider unconventional solutions for the heart of the defense.

Ancelotti not convinced by Tchouameni-Asencio pairing

The most talked-about option is a pairing of Aurelien Tchouameni and the young, relatively untested Raul Asencio.

But as reported by Diario AS, this is something that doesn’t quite convince Ancelotti.

Asencio, Tchouameni pairing doesn’t convince Ancelotti (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

It appears the idea of deploying Tchouameni, primarily a midfielder, alongside Asencio, who has limited first-team experience, has not been well-received within the club’s strategic circles.

This duo lacks the cohesion and experience needed for high-stakes games like the upcoming derby against Atletico Madrid and the critical Champions League encounter against Man City.

Ancelotti’s skepticism is understandable. Tchouameni, despite his versatility, has not played extensively as a central defender, and Asencio’s youth might not be the ideal match for the pressure of these matches.

The makeshift partnership does not inspire confidence, especially when facing teams as tactically astute as Atletico Madrid or Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

Alaba’s accelerated return, therefore, is now more urgent than ever, but even his readiness is under scrutiny due to the risk of further injury if rushed back into action too soon.

The next few weeks is certain to test the depth and resilience of Real Madrid’s squad.