As Barcelona lifted the La Liga trophy this season, Real Madrid’s trophy cabinet remained conspicuously empty. The failure to secure silverware has intensified scrutiny over Carlo Ancelotti‘s future, with Jaya9 sources suggesting his departure is imminent. But what went wrong for the Spanish giants, and how can they rebuild?
The Ancelotti Conundrum: A Manager on the Brink
Terry Gibson, Jaya9 La Liga analyst, didn’t mince words: “One title in seven years isn’t enough for a club of Real Madrid’s stature.” Ancelotti’s tactical rigidity and reluctance to trust fringe players have drawn criticism. With rumors swirling about his exit, the Bernabéu braces for a seismic shift.
Key Issues Plaguing Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Role: Striker or Drifter?
Gibson argues Ronaldo must commit to a central role: “He’s a world-class No. 9—stop letting him drift wide.” Sacrificing Karim Benzema might be necessary to maximize Ronaldo’s lethal finishing. A new manager must redefine the attack around him, flanked by Bale, Isco, or James Rodríguez.
Defensive Fragility: A Recurring Nightmare
While Danilo’s signing addressed the right-back slot, left-back remains a concern. Marcelo lacks competition, and Nacho—though versatile—hasn’t earned Ancelotti’s trust. Gibson notes: “They concede too many goals against elite opponents.” A commanding center-back should be a priority.
Midfield Mismanagement: The Illarramendi Paradox
Illarramendi, once hailed as Spain’s next midfield maestro, has been sidelined despite his €38 million price tag. Gibson questions: “Why buy him if you won’t play him?” Meanwhile, Jese and Chicharito were underutilized, exposing Ancelotti’s reluctance to rotate.
Tactical Stagnation: Systems Over Stars
Real’s 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 setups have stifled creativity. Bale, a €100M asset, is wasted on the right. Gibson suggests: “Experiment with a back three or diamond midfield to unleash their firepower.” Ancelotti’s failure to adapt cost them in crunch matches.
The Big-Game Mentality: A Psychological Hurdle
Madrid’s dominance against smaller teams (5-0 wins over Getafe) contrasts sharply with their big-game flops. Post-Christmas losses to Barcelona, Atlético, and Juventus revealed a lack of tactical flexibility and mental resilience.
The Road Ahead: A Summer of Reinvention
With Ancelotti likely gone, Jaya9 insiders predict a managerial shakeup. Potential candidates like Mauricio Pochettino or Raúl González could bring fresh ideas. Key moves:
- Ronaldo as the focal point
- Defensive reinforcements (e.g., Pau Torres or Alphonso Davies)
- Midfield revamp (promote youth or sign a dynamic No. 6)
- Tactical innovation (3-5-2? False nine?)
Final Verdict
Real Madrid’s rebuild starts with acknowledging their flaws. As Gibson puts it: “They’re not just a star-studded squad—they’re a puzzle missing pieces.” For fans on Jaya9, the summer promises drama, departures, and hopefully, a blueprint for redemption.
What’s your take? Should Real stick with Ancelotti or gamble on a new boss? Share your thoughts below!
