Real Madrid’s heavy defeat to Barcelona in Jeddah has left a lasting mark on the club. The loss, their second heavy defeat to their arch-rivals, exposed serious issues with the team’s performance and raised concerns over the lack of tactical cohesion.
The expression of president Florentino Pérez in the King Abdullah Sports City stadium said it all. While no immediate or drastic decisions will be made, a comprehensive reset plan has been set in motion to assess the situation and realign the team’s future.
This week, high-level meetings involving the club’s board and manager Carlo Ancelotti will take place to evaluate the team’s issues and find solutions.
Confidence in Ancelotti Eroded
According to AS, the most immediate consequence of the loss is a noticeable dip in confidence in Ancelotti’s leadership. Although the club recognizes the Italian’s achievements, including winning two trophies this season, the team’s inability to find consistent form has become a significant concern.
Despite the mounting pressure, Real Madrid has ruled out firing Ancelotti mid-season. The logistics of replacing an entire coaching staff, which includes around 15 members, are seen as too complicated. Furthermore, the club’s hierarchy still believes the team’s situation is not beyond repair.
Although Real Madrid has suffered disappointing defeats to Barcelona and struggled in important matches against teams like Liverpool, AC Milan, Athletic Club, and Atletico Madrid, they’ve already secured two trophies and remain in the hunt for La Liga and a spot in the Champions League knockout stages.
However, doubts about the team’s performances are growing. The lack of defensive stability, unclear playing style, and failure to dominate key matches are all issues Ancelotti will need to address. Injuries to key players have also hindered the team’s form.
It is widely known that Florentino Pérez has Xabi Alonso in mind as a potential successor, but any decisions about Ancelotti’s future will be postponed until the season concludes.