Ancelotti's 'Threat' to His 'Fantastic Four' at Halftime of the Derby: 'If Not...'

One of the most important groups of players currently in Santiago Bernabéu locker room is the one formed by Vinícius, Rodrygo Goes, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé. The so-called "Fantastic Four" have been key to achieving all the victories and titles this season, but they still have much to do.

Especially in the most important matches of the current soccer season. While it is true that their adaptation to Carlo Ancelotti's tactical schemes improves over time, the Italian strategist has the authority to correct any deviation. The changes in their plans are severely remembered by the Reggiolo coach as happened in the Madrid classic.

What happened during the last Saturday's match at Santiago Bernabéu extended the irregular competitive sensations offered since the 24/25 season began. Real Madrid went into halftime behind on the scoreboard after the penalty committed by Aurélien Tchouaméni, but the focus of the Reggiolo coach was on the offensive players.

"Either we stick to the plan or there will be immediate changes," warned the Real Madrid coach to Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo Goes, and Jude Bellingham. That "threat" about "immediate changes" mentioned by the Reggiolo coach during the halftime of the Madrid classic seems to have worked judging by their performance at Etihad Stadium.

Expeditious Reminder

The direct instructions to Real Madrid's '7' verdeamarelo were very specific: he had to stop moving inside to avoid congestion in that part of the tactical scheme created for the occasion. The habit acquired by the São Gonçalo forward during the 23/24 season, the intermediate campaign between Benzema's departure and Mbappé's arrival, now has no useful applications.

Therefore, the Brazilian winger must return to the more proper and pure functions of his position. Such modification of his instructions was perfectly reflected in the match against Manchester City: from there came Jude Bellingham's goal to win the match.

Little by little, Carlo Ancelotti is adjusting the positioning and automatisms of his best players on the field. Real Madrid's coaching staff knows firsthand that having the 'Fantastic Four' in their natural positions is essential for success in this and the upcoming seasons. But that doesn't mean they are exempt from occasional corrections like the one received during the Madrid classic.

The new tactical instructions for Vinícius give more prominence to Kylian Mbappé, who is transitioning from left winger to center forward. Carlo Ancelotti understands that he needs all the help possible to succeed in that 'metamorphosis'... especially if it comes from one of the club's best players and a consolidated leader both inside and outside Santiago Bernabéu locker room.