A soccer coach in a dark suit looks out onto the field as a player in a white uniform stands near him in a stadium full of spectators.
FIRST TEAM

Ancelotti's Unexpected Response About Tchouaméni and His Future at Real Madrid

The Italian coach has avoided pointing fingers at the French after the team's poor defensive performance: "I'm not going to point anyone out"

Real Madrid suffered a painful defeat (2-5) against Barcelona in the final of the Spanish Supercopa. Carlo Ancelotti, in the post-game press conference, was asked about Tchouaméni and his performance as a central defender. His reply was clear:

"We haven't defended well as a team, there's no need to name anyone," the Italian coach pointed out.

Ancelotti avoids pointing fingers

Despite the decisive scoreline, Ancelotti refused to blame Tchouaméni or any particular player. However, the Frenchman and Lucas Vázquez have been the most criticized by the fans. Both made key errors that facilitated Barça's dominance.

The coach surprised by choosing Tchouaméni as a central defender, displacing Raúl Asencio. The latter had performed well in the initial games following Militão's injury, but Ancelotti opted to move the midfielder to the central defense.

A decision that doesn't convince

The experiment with Tchouaméni in defense left the team exposed. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha took advantage of the spaces, continuously breaking through. Additionally, the penalty committed by Camavinga and the lack of defensive solidity were decisive.

With the score against them, Real Madrid couldn't react or capitalize on the numerical advantage after Szczęsny's expulsion. Barça dominated both tactically and in intensity.

What will happen with Tchouaméni?

Tchouaméni's future at Real Madrid is in doubt, and his role in the team raises questions. As a pivot, he has proven to be key.

Two soccer players compete for the ball in a match, one dressed in white and the other in blue and red.
Tchouaméni and Lamine Yamal | Real Madrid Confidencial

However, his performance as a center-back raises doubts. Ancelotti will have to decide whether to continue betting on this position or return the Frenchman to his natural place in the midfield.

Pressure mounts for Ancelotti

The defeat reignites criticism toward the Italian coach. The decision to bench Raúl Asencio and force Tchouaméni as a center-back has been questioned by the press and fans.

Real Madrid can't afford more mistakes. The season continues, and after this tough fall, the team must prove it can compete at the highest level. Meanwhile, Ancelotti will try to regain his team's confidence and adjust the system to avoid another disaster like the one experienced in the final.

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