Carlo Ancelotti faces a tough decision that could cause many issues for Real Madrid this season. The long-term injury of Dani Carvajal, who will miss the entire season, has left a significant gap in the right-back position. In this scenario, the Italian coach is considering a surprising solution that could prove costly for the club: using Federico Valverde as a right-back, as reported by Rodra de Relevo. This decision could disrupt the tactical organization that has seemed to work well in recent matches, resorting to their best player as a stopgap measure at the beginning of the season.
Federico Valverde has been one of the standout players for Real Madrid at the start of this season, surpassing Vinícius and Kylian Mbappé, who have not consistently performed well. His ability to orchestrate play with his first passes has made him the engine of the team, filling the void left by Toni Kroos' retirement. Altering his role to cover a defensive absence would be a risky decision that could weaken the Merengues, as they would lose their primary playmaker in midfield.
Valverde Cannot Be a Right-back
The situation becomes even more complicated considering Real Madrid's lack of plans to sign a replacement for Carvajal in the winter transfer market, waiting instead to pursue a summer move for Trent Alexander Arnold. Lucas Vázquez is the other available option, but his inconsistent form does not guarantee the level of performance required for a season demanding excellence in both LaLiga and European competitions. With Luka Modric unable to play at peak level for 90 minutes and young talents like Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni not yet established as leaders in the midfield, Valverde is crucial in the center of the pitch.
Shifting the Uruguayan to right-back would not only impact the team's offensive dynamics but also its tactical solidity. Bellingham thrives in more advanced positions and cannot assume the playmaking role that Valverde has executed masterfully. The lack of quality alternatives in the midfield, combined with Valverde's potential absence in that key area, could be a severe blow to Real Madrid's ambitions this season.
Ancelotti will have to make a tough decision, but displacing the Uruguayan from his position would be a mistake that could hinder their fight for LaLiga against FC Barcelona and in the UEFA Champions League.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La decisión de Ancelotti que podría costarle la temporada al Real Madrid