Amid Real Madrid’s recent struggles, a storm of frustration is brewing within the club, and it’s centered around Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical decisions. In a recent press conference, former captain and club legend Karim Benzema did not hold back, criticizing the coach’s persistent use of one player in a position he believes doesn’t suit either the player or the team.
“This is not the Madrid we all know,” Benzema said, his frustration clear. “This is not my team. Ancelotti needs to find his perfect wing now or start benching him.”
Though Benzema did not directly name the player in question, many fans and insiders quickly speculated that his comments were directed at Kylian Mbappé. Since his arrival at Real Madrid, Mbappé has frequently been deployed in a role that seems to limit his natural style of play. Known for his blistering pace and creativity on the left wing or as a forward, Mbappé has been used in positions that appear to restrict his impact, leading to less-than-ideal performances in key matches.
Benzema’s frustration highlights wider concerns among fans and pundits about Ancelotti’s tactical decisions this season. The French forward, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, has not been played where his talents are most effective, resulting in a perceived dip in his influence on the pitch.
“This isn’t just about one player; it’s about the team’s overall cohesion,” Benzema continued. “Real Madrid is known for making players thrive, but now it feels like we’re seeing forced experiments, and it’s costing us.”
Ancelotti, a manager with a legendary reputation, has faced increasing pressure to integrate Mbappé into the squad without disrupting the team’s balance. However, frequent changes in positioning have seemingly undermined the team’s rhythm, with Mbappé’s form becoming a focal point of criticism.
Many fans feel Ancelotti must either let Mbappé play in his preferred role or reconsider his regular starting spot. For a club like Real Madrid, tactical missteps are closely scrutinized, and underperformance leads to rapid backlash.
Benzema’s words carry extra weight given his legendary status at the club and his deep understanding of its culture. As a key figure during one of Madrid’s most successful eras, his insight into the team’s dynamics is invaluable.
As pressure builds on Ancelotti, the critical question remains: Will he make the tactical adjustments needed to get the best out of his squad, or will his reluctance to change further divide the team?
With crucial matches on the horizon, Ancelotti’s ability to unite the squad and make effective tactical decisions will play a decisive role in shaping the remainder of Madrid’s season.
