Two men on a soccer field discussing strategies during a match.
FIRST TEAM

Bad Luck: Ten Days before Competing Again, Ancelotti Faces a Big Problem

Valencia has fired Rubén Baraja and it's unknown who the next coach will be and what their game plan will entail

Real Madrid returns to competition on January 3rd. Carlo Ancelotti's team will visit Mestalla to face Valencia in the postponed game of gameday 12. However, the Italian coach encounters an unexpected setback.

Valencia has dismissed Rubén Baraja. The team's poor run, sitting second to last in LaLiga with only 12 points, has been decisive. Tied with the bottom team Valladolid, the club has opted for a change on the bench.

This move complicates Ancelotti's preparation. With a new coach at the helm, it's impossible to predict Valencia's approach.

Two men in suits greet each other in a friendly manner in a stadium full of spectators.
Ancelotti and Baraja | Real Madrid Confidencial

Problems studying the opponent

Carlo Ancelotti is known for his ability to analyze opponents. However, this time he won't be able to do it as usual.

Valencia's new coach hasn't been announced yet. This makes it difficult to anticipate the tactical setup, starting line-up, and strategies of the home team.

The match against Valencia comes at a crucial time. January will be a month full of commitments for Real Madrid. Maintaining competitive rhythm will be essential to continue competing for the lead in LaLiga and advancing in other competitions.

Additionally, Mestalla is always a challenging stadium. Even though Valencia is in crisis, the support of their fans can be an important factor.

January 2025 calendar with the Valencia C.F. and Real Madrid crests on the background of the Mestalla stadium.
Valencia-Real Madrid and January schedule | Real Madrid Confidencial

Detailed preparation

Ancelotti will have to adapt to the circumstances. The team's training and preparation will focus on reinforcing Madrid's strengths.

Players like Bellingham, Valverde, and Camavinga will be key to maintaining control in the midfield. In attack, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinícius, and Mbappé will look to make a difference.

Valencia's new coach will be an added challenge. For Real Madrid, this match is an opportunity to maintain their good run and consolidate their position in LaLiga.

Ancelotti knows it will be a tough duel, but he trusts his team. The uncertainty of the opponent doesn't change the goal: to earn three points at Mestalla.

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