Real Madrid: 5 biggest challenges for Ancelotti this season

Carlo Ancelotti has a huge challenge ahead of him with the 2021-22 season knocking around the corner. The Italian manager will have to make most out of a somewhat depleted Real Madrid squad post-Sergio Ramos’ and Raphael Varane’s departures while a few more players could also be heading towards the exit door.

After a trophyless season, fans expected an overhaul from Florentino Perez in the transfer market. Instead, the only signing of the summer has been David Alaba and no other additional signings are expected. Meanwhile, the players who have returned from loans are now being termed as “reinforcements” for the season.

Tough times lie ahead for the former Everton manager and here are some of the challenges he may come up against ahead of the new season.

SECURING MARTIN ODEGAARD

Carlo Ancelotti was not too happy with Martin Odegaard’s signing in the 2014/15 season. The Italian stated that it was not a signing he asked for but was a “Public Relation” related signing made by Florentino Perez.

Ironically, Odegaard has proved he’s worth a lot more than a PR signing and is considered by many to be the future of Real Madrid’s midfield. However, the Norwegian is reportedly unsettled at Madrid and is keen on returning back to Arsenal, where he endured a somewhat mixed spell during his six-month stay.

It seems like Odegaard is not willing to fight for a place at the Spanish capital and prefers a place where chances come easier. At Real Madrid, everyone fights for a place and Martin Odegaard should be no exception.

With Luka Modric and Toni Kroos catching up with age along with Isco’s form deteriorating rapidly, Los Blancos require the services of Odegaard. Carlo Ancelotti will have to convince the Norwegian to carry on at Madrid by assuring him a somewhat prominent role in the team. The Italian enjoys using a number 10 in his system and Martin Odegaard is certainly the one Ancelotti can make use of.