Kroos puts Ancelotti in a difficult position

Coach Ancelotti's future at Real is in doubt. Photo: Reuters .

The Spanish media have begun to seriously question the Italian's managerial abilities, not only for the upcoming second leg, but also for his future at Madrid.

The biggest problem facing Ancelotti is Real's lack of organisation and cohesion in their play. Los Blancos have often been disjointed between the lines this season, with the gap between defence and midfield stretched, leading to ineffective pressing. Against a disciplined and well-organised opponent like Arsenal, those weaknesses were fully exploited.

"We have never been a tight and cohesive team throughout the season," Ancelotti admitted. In an earlier statement, he added: "We lack balance, but we have quality individuals up front."

However, the quality of the attack is not enough to make up for 11 defeats, an alarming number compared to just two defeats all of last season.

Since Toni Kroos retired, Real Madrid has not been stable in controlling and implementing the game. This makes it difficult for coach Ancelotti to build the midfield. He has not found a replacement with enough ability to maintain the rhythm and organize the game.

Throughout the season, only Luka Modric and, at times, Dani Ceballos have given Real the feeling of controlling the midfield. But Modric's limited playing time and Ceballos' injury have left this puzzle unsolved.

However, there is a glimmer of hope as Ceballos is expected to return for the second leg, and could be in the starting lineup.

Real Madrid lost to Arsenal in the first leg. Photo: Reuters .

Ancelotti's ability to dictate the game from the bench has also been criticised. Against Arsenal, he was slow to make substitutions, even though the game clearly required urgent changes. In some games, he did not make full use of his substitutions, missing opportunities to change the game or give key players a rest.

Names like Endrick and Arda Guler were quite lackluster, while Brahim Diaz only played 5 minutes in the defeat in London. These are decisions that experts find confusing.

The form and fitness of many key players are also low. From defense to attack, the current Real squad lacks both sharpness and organization. Losing up to 5 matches in the Champions League this season shows that they are no longer the fearsome team they used to be.

With all of this in mind, Ancelotti’s future is in serious doubt. The return leg against Arsenal at the Bernabeu is a chance to turn things around, and the final test of his entire Madrid project.

"If they fail, not only will the semi-final ticket, but Ancelotti's coaching position may no longer be guaranteed," Marca concluded.

Arsenal's goal sinks Real In the 75th minute, Mikel Merino defeated Courtois with a technical shot from the 16.5m line, sealing Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Real.

Source: https://znews.vn/kroos-day-ancelotti-vao-the-kho-post1544787.html