Real Madrid failed to replace Karim Benzema last summer when he left for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, nor did they bring in any reinforcements when David Alaba and Eder Militao tore ACLs last season. Increasingly, it looks as though they will not be looking to sign another defender, although they have missed out on Leny Yoro, who was expected to be their fourth centre-back this season.
As was the case with Jude Bellingham, who became Real Madrid’s top scorer for much of last season, it seems that Ancelotti has succeeded too well, depriving himself of the ability to demand players. He asked for Harry Kane last summer, and again this year he asked for another centre-back after Yoro signed from Manchester United. He believes that not only is there a lack of a centre-back, but that in the absence of David Alaba, all the options are right-footed.
It’s still no for Carletto
Los Blancos believe that with Raul Asencio, Castilla’s central defender, Jesus Vallejo as a backup and Aurelien Tchouameni perfectly capable of defending, there is no need to go for a defender they do not consider good. The Athletic say they will not close the door on a transfer if the right player comes along in the final weeks of the market, but the club have told Ancelotti they have every confidence in his ability to find solutions this season.
The Italian coach also called for a recruitment in January last year, when Alaba was injured and was asked to step up. Ancelotti has certainly shown that he can fill the gaps in the squad, but it is a risky move. By force of circumstance, it seems unlikely that Ancelotti will continue to solve problems at such a prolific rate.
