Real Madrid’s Striker Dilemma: Ancelotti’s New System Raises Concerns

Real Madrid suffered a significant blow at the end of the previous season with the departure of Karim Benzema, who joined Al-Ittihad. Despite his injury troubles, the Frenchman remained a prolific goal scorer in Carlo Ancelotti’s team, netting 31 goals and providing 6 assists in 43 appearances during the 2022/23 campaign, according to Transfermarkt.

Initially, it was expected that Benzema would extend his contract and continue his tenure at Real Madrid for another season, making his sudden exit all the more surprising.

Benzema leaves behind a substantial void to fill, and thus far, Real Madrid has not adequately replaced the French striker. Joselu has been brought in on loan, while 18-year-old Uruguayan talent Alvaro is the only other player capable of playing as a center-forward in the squad.

Rumors have circulated that Ancelotti might consider a change in the team’s system, potentially deploying Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo as a striking duo in a 4-4-2 formation. This shift would accommodate the inclusion of Jude Bellingham in the first-team setup. Ancelotti himself has acknowledged the possibility of trying a new style, as reported by ESPN.

The Italian coach’s comments may raise concerns among Real Madrid fans, as a change in formation could suggest the club’s reluctance to sign another striker during the summer transfer window. Such a decision could prove to be a major mistake.

Reliant solely on Joselu and Alvaro as the primary striking options is inadequate for a club aspiring to compete for all major trophies in the upcoming season. Moreover, potential injuries to Vinicius or Rodrygo would leave the team even more vulnerable.

Real Madrid risks entering the next season with reduced squad depth compared to the 2022/23 campaign, if they fail to address the striker position. In such a scenario, the team’s success will heavily depend on Ancelotti’s ability to maximize the potential of the available players.