Jude Bellingham Critical of Real Madrid Defence, as Carlo Ancelotti Explains Difficult Choice of Style
Jude Bellingham on Team Performance
Real Madrid playmaker Jude Bellingham expressed concerns regarding their defensive display against Stuttgart, acknowledging that the team fell short in their defensive duties. The German side relentlessly challenged their goal, compelling Thibaut Courtois to make an impressive six saves throughout the match. Bellingham characterized the current squad as a “new-look” Real Madrid, indicating that they are still adjusting to changes.
“We gave up far too many chances, but as soon as they got past our first line of pressure, they always seemed to cause us problems,” Jude Bellingham stated when reflecting on their performance against Stuttgart.
Adjustments and Improvements
Bellingham highlighted the impact of losing key player Toni Kroos, calling it a significant blow to their rhythm and overall gameplay. He described Kroos as “irreplaceable,” underscoring the team’s efforts to adapt to his absence. Despite these challenges, Jude Bellingham noted a positive aspect of the match: securing a win without showcasing their best form.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Tactical Insights
Following the match, head coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed the media, emphasizing the necessity of suffering in pursuit of success, particularly in the Champions League. He acknowledged the difficulties faced against Stuttgart, as the opposition successfully bypassed Madrid’s midfield, prompting audible discontent from Santiago Bernabeu supporters.
“It was difficult for us to recover; they managed the ball very well,” Ancelotti explained. “When we were 1-0 up, there were two or three counter-attacks.”
He elaborated on the tactical direction his team chose to pursue, explaining that opting for a vertical playstyle allowed them numerous opportunities.
Tactical Flexibility: A Choice Between Styles
Ancelotti clarified the decision-making process regarding team tactics, saying, “You have to choose between building up or playing vertically.” He noted that the initial goal stemmed from a vertical ball by Aurelien Tchouameni, emphasizing the need to swiftly approach the opponent’s goal.
“We have to work harder on building up from the back, today we had a bit more trouble in the first half,” Ancelotti reflected, asserting the responsibility of finding effective solutions going forward.
As reported by Relevo, Ancelotti urged the media to re-evaluate his team in five weeks, considering their lack of a proper preseason. While the squad continues to face difficulties in synchronizing their efforts, winning against Stuttgart without an impressive display resembles previous performances, where more cohesive play emerged post-January last year.
Nevertheless, as long as Real Madrid remains competitive in all tournaments by February, Ancelotti’s focus will likely remain on enhancing team performance.
