Big tensions are taking shape at Real Madrid according to the Spanish press. Enough to derail the season?
Real Madrid are enjoying a season that looks set for success, with a comfortable lead in La Liga and a lead in the Champions League knockout tie against RB Leipzig. At the heart of this success is Carlo Ancelotti’s ability to get the most out of a squad badly affected by injuries. Despite this, he has to manage several delicate situations with players.
Luka Modric seems set to leave at the end of his contract, while tension rises between Ancelotti and star Arda Guler, unhappy with his playing time. The relationship between the Italian and Nacho Fernandez is also “tense”, according to The Athletic .
Ancelotti tries to manage
The veteran defender has received significantly more playing time this season, following injuries to Eder Militao, David Alaba and most recently Antonio Rudiger. Yet he does not believe he has Ancelotti’s complete trust, even though the Italian speaks positively of him in public. Nacho was replaced several times by Aurélien Tchouameni in defense when Real Madrid were looking to win matches.
Last season, Nacho admitted he was close to leaving the club due to a lack of playing time, believing Ancelotti was not giving him a fair chance in favor of the other three centre-backs. This season his playing time has increased, even if his form has dropped, due to circumstances, but he will have to make a decision on his future again this summer, since he is at the end of his lease. The Whites may not force him to leave, but with Rafa Marin returning on loan to Alaves, Nacho could be left wondering about his role next season.
