As Real Madrid approaches a crucial Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal, Carlo Ancelotti’s side appears to be hitting peak form at just the right time.
With momentum on their side, Los Blancos are level on points with Barcelona at the top of LaLiga, firmly in the hunt for Copa del Rey glory, and once again proving their European pedigree.
However, while Madrid’s recent performances showcase their offensive firepower and resilience, they are not without their challenges. With injuries, suspensions, and tactical dilemmas to address, Ancelotti has some crucial decisions to make ahead of the highly anticipated first leg at the Emirates Stadium on April 8.
Tchouameni’s Suspension and Its Impact
One of Ancelotti’s biggest concerns heading into the first leg against Arsenal is the suspension of Aurelien Tchouameni.
The French midfielder, a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s midfield, picked up his third yellow card of the Champions League campaign during the last-16 tie against Atletico Madrid, resulting in a one-match ban.
Tchouameni’s absence is a significant blow for Madrid. His defensive work in midfield has been instrumental, and his statistics highlight his influence on the team.
Only Federico Valverde has recorded more tackles and interceptions for Madrid in LaLiga this season, underscoring Tchouameni’s role as a midfield enforcer.
His ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently has been key, with only Kylian Mbappe and Valverde registering more minutes than him in the squad.
This leaves Ancelotti with a selection dilemma. Eduardo Camavinga could slot into the holding role, but his natural inclination to push forward could leave Madrid exposed defensively.
Alternatively, Lucas Modric despite his advancing years could be deployed in a deeper role, offering experience and composure in possession.
The decision will be crucial, as Arsenal’s high-intensity midfield, led by Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice, is capable of exploiting any gaps in Madrid’s defensive structure.
Read Also: Real Madrid Receive Major Injury Boost Ahead of Champions League Clash with Manchester City
Fixture Congestion and Fatigue Concerns
Beyond personnel issues, Madrid faces another challenge in the form of a congested fixture schedule. Ancelotti has been vocal about the demanding calendar, particularly the quick turnarounds between crucial matches.
Following their hard-fought Champions League win over Atletico Madrid, Los Blancos had less than 72 hours to prepare for their next LaLiga match against Villarreal.
Despite securing a 2-1 comeback victory, Ancelotti expressed his frustration over the lack of recovery time, making it clear that he expected better scheduling in the future.
Unfortunately for Madrid, the post-international break period presents a similar issue.
They will face Leganés in LaLiga before a crucial Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad. This intense schedule leaves little room for rest, increasing the risk of fatigue and potential injuries.
Arsenal, by contrast, find themselves in a much more favorable position. Having been eliminated from the FA Cup, Mikel Arteta’s side will have a rare weekend off following the international break.
This extra time for recovery and tactical preparation could give them an edge heading into the first leg.
Attacking Firepower vs. Defensive Stability
Madrid’s attacking prowess has been one of their standout features this season. The arrival of Kylian Mbappe has added another dimension to an already formidable forward line, alongside Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr.
This quartet has the ability to dismantle any defense, and their combination of pace, creativity, and finishing has made Madrid one of the most feared attacking units in Europe.
However, some critics have raised concerns about the balance of the team. With an extra forward in the lineup, Madrid’s midfield often finds itself under greater pressure defensively.
The departure of Toni Kroos, who previously provided stability in the center of the park, has left gaps that opponents have been able to exploit.
Barcelona, for instance, have scored nine goals against Real Madrid in their two meetings this season, highlighting potential defensive vulnerabilities.
The key for Ancelotti will be ensuring that his front four contribute defensively, pressing from the front to reduce the burden on the midfield and backline.
Madrid’s Champions League performance against Manchester City provided a blueprint for success. Ancelotti praised the work rate of his attackers in those matches, emphasizing that defensive discipline from the forwards is crucial.
“With all this quality in front, it is difficult to think that we could defend so well,” Ancelotti said after the City game.
“But the sacrifice of the four was fantastic in these two games, and this is the key. Because when you defend well, in front, we are really dangerous, because we have so much quality.”
How Madrid Can Overcome Arsenal
Despite the challenges, Real Madrid remains a formidable force, particularly in the Champions League, a competition where they have historically thrived. To overcome Arsenal, they will need to:
1. Find the Right Midfield Balance – With Tchouameni out, Ancelotti must decide between a more defensive setup with Camavinga or a possession-oriented approach with Modric. Valverde’s energy and versatility will also be crucial.
2. Exploit Arsenal’s Defense – While Arsenal have been solid defensively, Madrid’s pace in attack, particularly from Vinicius and Mbappe, can cause problems. The Gunners’ high defensive line could be vulnerable to Madrid’s quick transitions.
3. Maintain Defensive Discipline – Arsenal’s pressing and midfield intensity will test Madrid’s ability to keep possession under pressure. Ensuring defensive solidity, particularly in the absence of Tchouameni, will be essential.
4. Manage Fatigue – With a busy schedule, rotation and squad management will be key. Ancelotti will need to carefully manage minutes to keep his key players fresh for the Emirates clash.
Real Madrid head into their Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal as favorites, but they will need to be at their best to progress. With injuries and suspensions testing their squad depth, and a packed fixture schedule adding further complications, Ancelotti’s tactical decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will be eager to capitalize on any weaknesses Madrid display. However, the Spanish giants have repeatedly shown that they thrive under pressure, and if history is any indicator, they will be ready to rise to the occasion.
