Rodrygo Goes Grappling with Deeper Defenses, Ancelotti Remains Supportive

Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has been candid about Rodrygo Goes’ challenges in dealing with deep-lying defenses. The Brazilian forward made a strong start to the season by scoring against Athletic Club on the opening day but has struggled to find the back of the net since then.

In the previous season, Rodrygo managed an impressive tally of 19 goals, despite not being a guaranteed starter. However, this season, he has only his opening-day strike to his name, closely aligned with his expected goals figure of 3.2. Ancelotti acknowledges that Rodrygo excels in open spaces and admits that he finds games with limited space more challenging.

Regarding Rodrygo, Ancelotti remarked, “For him, these games are more complicated. He is very good in open space, and here there are smaller spaces. He hasn’t had the opportunity to play in open space. Today he was unlucky because he could have scored in two or three situations,” as reported by Diario AS.

"The idea is to be patient, but not too patient. These games are like that. Trap games. I remember Sheriff, where we lost at home, it was that type of game. It is to our credit, Rudiger was outstanding."

Carlo Ancelotti on facing low blocks. #HalaMadrid (Diario AS) pic.twitter.com/nbaBh8z4VV
— Football España (@footballespana_) September 21, 2023

It’s worth noting that the preference for open spaces holds true for the majority of players, but this season appears to be a more substantial challenge for Rodrygo. Nevertheless, the sample size is relatively small, and it’s premature to label it a major concern for Real Madrid.

Rodrygo also appears to be missing the presence of Karim Benzema, with whom he had a strong connection. Joselu’s different playing style requires an adjustment, and the arrival of Jude Bellingham from the second line of attack has compelled Rodrygo to operate closer to the opponent’s last line of defense, a position less familiar to him.

https://www.football-espana.net