Ancelotti’s Experimental Lineup Draws Criticism in Real Madrid’s Derby Defeat

Carlo Ancelotti’s team selection for the match against Atletico Madrid has come under heavy criticism, with many questioning his decision to experiment with the lineup. Real Madrid had entered the game with a perfect record in the 2023/24 season, having won all six of their previous matches. However, Ancelotti’s choices backfired.

One notable decision was dropping Aurelien Tchouameni, despite the Frenchman being in excellent form. Ancelotti also made positional changes for Jude Bellingham and opted to start Toni Kroos and Luka Modric together, despite both players having rotational roles in recent times.

The match against Atletico Madrid proved to be an unfavorable occasion for such experiments, and the result reflected that sentiment. Real Madrid never seemed in control of the game, falling behind in the 4th minute and conceding a second goal to Antoine Griezmann in the 18th minute. Although Kroos managed to pull a goal back in the first half, Alvaro Morata’s second goal shortly after halftime sealed the victory for Atletico.

According to The Athletic, Ancelotti’s decision to start Kroos and Modric together in midfield did not sit well with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. Perez reportedly expressed his dissatisfaction with the pairing multiple times during the 2022-23 season. While both Kroos and Modric are legendary figures in Real Madrid’s history, they are now in the latter stages of their careers. Starting them together, especially in a high-intensity match like the derby, may not be the wisest choice at this point.

Ancelotti’s desire for experience in the midfield was understandable, but it did not yield the desired results against Atletico Madrid.