One of Real Madrid’s Best Against Manchester City: Ancelotti Plans a Tactical Shift
Real Madrid secured a thrilling 2-3 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, showcasing their resilience once again in the Champions League. Despite the narrow scoreline, Los Blancos dominated large stretches of the game, creating numerous chances that could’ve widened the gap even further.
While several players shone under the lights, one standout performance caught Carlo Ancelotti’s attention—and it might just lead to a tactical shake-up.
Valverde’s Versatility Impresses Again
With both Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez sidelined due to injury, Ancelotti made a bold decision: he deployed Fede Valverde as a right-back. The Uruguayan, known for his relentless energy and tactical intelligence, didn’t disappoint. Despite playing out of position, Valverde delivered a masterclass, excelling both defensively and offensively.
Ancelotti praised Valverde’s performance in the post-match press conference, highlighting his adaptability and team-first mentality. However, this experiment might not be a one-off. The Italian coach is reportedly considering keeping Valverde in this role, especially in high-stakes matches against top-tier opponents.
A Sacrifice for the Greater Good
Moving Valverde to right-back comes with a cost. It means sacrificing his dynamic presence in midfield—a role where he’s been pivotal for Madrid. But with Raúl Asencio emerging as a reliable option in defense and Rüdiger’s return pushing Tchouaméni back into midfield, Ancelotti seems willing to take that risk.
Valverde’s willingness to adapt without complaint speaks volumes about his professionalism. He remains a key figure in Ancelotti’s plans, regardless of where he’s positioned on the pitch.
Irreplaceable for Madrid
Valverde’s importance to Real Madrid cannot be overstated. His work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure make him indispensable. Ancelotti’s only real concern? Keeping him fit. So far, Valverde has avoided major injuries—a blessing for the Madrid faithful.
Fans and pundits alike believe he has the potential to wear the captain’s armband in the future. His leadership qualities, coupled with his consistent performances, make him a natural candidate.
A Bright Future Ahead
Still in the prime of his career, Valverde’s trajectory continues to rise. Within the club, there’s a growing belief that he could become a Madrid legend. Both he and his family are happily settled in the Spanish capital, and with a long-term contract in place, Valverde’s future looks firmly tied to the white shirt.
As Real Madrid prepare for the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, one thing is clear: wherever he plays, Fede Valverde will be crucial to their Champions League ambitions.
