A Rough Start to the Year for Real Madrid
2025 has not been kind to Real Madrid. The club, which began the year atop the La Liga standings, has since slipped to third place, a significant blow to their ambitions. The team’s struggles aren’t limited to the league; they were thoroughly defeated by rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup. However, it is their recent league form that has sparked the most concern. Last weekend’s loss to Real Betis marked a particularly low point, as it brought their win count in the last five La Liga matches down to just one. This poor run has left them trailing behind Barcelona by three points, a gap that is increasingly hard to bridge.
Reflections from Carlo Ancelotti
In the aftermath of the defeat at the Benito Villamarin, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti took some time to reflect on his team’s performance. Ancelotti, known for his calm demeanor and strategic acumen, expressed his disappointment but also a sense of optimism. "I was disappointed in the match. I thought the team was in good shape, and I didn’t expect that slump. But it was isolated. I don’t think the players choose games; I think that in such a demanding season, the wear and tear is very high. Sometimes you may think that not every game you are 100%. The dynamic was good, and we reacted well. We are back on the right track," he stated. Ancelotti’s comments suggest that he sees the current downturn as a temporary blip rather than a systemic issue, and he is confident that his team can bounce back.
The Champions League Performance of Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé, one of Real Madrid’s star signings, has also come under scrutiny following his performance in the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. Ancelotti addressed the criticism, emphasizing that while Mbappé’s performance against Atletico didn’t match his previous heroics against Manchester City, it is important to view his overall contributions in a positive light. "Against Atleti he didn’t do what he did against City. On a general level, he does very well, and we are very happy with him. We must bear in mind that he is not always at his best. The season is demanding, and it’s normal, especially for quality players. They have more ups and downs; it’s something genetic. He’s doing very well. If we’re in the Champions League round of 16, it’s a lot for him, and he scored four goals in the tie," Ancelotti explained. The manager’s words highlight a balanced perspective, acknowledging the pressures of a grueling season and the natural variability in a player’s performance.
Eduardo Camavinga: A Player on the Mend
Another player who has faced scrutiny this season is Eduardo Camavinga. The young midfielder has struggled with consistency, a trend that Ancelotti attributes to a series of setbacks. "He hasn’t had continuity, he’s had important injuries. They have left him out for three and a half months, which makes it more difficult to get continuity. Now he is improving little by little, in recent games he has had back pain that did not allow him to play at 100%. He has endured because of the team’s need. He will return to his best version," Ancelotti said. Camavinga’s journey this season has been marked by significant hurdles, but Ancelotti remains confident that with time and the right support, the midfielder will regain his top form and contribute significantly to the team.
The Impact of a Demanding Season
The challenges faced by Real Madrid this season are not unique to any one player. Ancelotti’s comments about the physical and mental toll of a demanding schedule offer insight into the broader context of the team’s struggles. The relentless pace of top-tier football, with multiple competitions and high-stakes matches, can take a significant toll on even the most seasoned professionals. Ancelotti’s recognition of this fact underscores his experience and empathy as a manager. His approach emphasizes understanding and patience, recognizing that players need time to recover and regain their rhythm. This human-centric approach could be crucial in helping the team navigate the bumps in the road and emerge stronger.
Looking Forward: A Path to Recovery
Despite the current difficulties, Ancelotti and the Real Madrid faithful remain optimistic. The manager’s belief in his team’s ability to recover and the gradual improvements shown by players like Camavinga indicate that the club is not giving up. Ancelotti’s strategy focuses on maintaining a positive dynamic and ensuring that the players do not lose confidence. As the season progresses, the hope is that the team will find their rhythm and consistency, both in the league and in the Champions League. For a club of Real Madrid’s stature, the current setbacks are seen as part of the journey toward achieving their ultimate goals, and the resilience and support of the players, management, and fans will be key in turning the tide.
