Real Madrid: 5 players who had an encouraging first game under Ancelotti

Madridistas’ wait was finally over when the men in White took the pitch in LaLiga’s first Matchday at Mendizorozza. The season opener went in favor of Los Blancos after a first-half that looked anything but positive. Alaves were given way too much space to exploit and the Basque team was able to manufacture chances easily.

But the second half’s story was different, in a good way. Real brought their A-game and started scoring just two minutes into the half. There were several noteworthy performers. Here is a list of five who had encouraging starts, these aren’t usual Real Madrid saviors like Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, but players who needed to shine under Carlo Ancelotti more than others.

5. Gareth Bale

On number five to kick start the list, we have Real Madrid’s Welsh wizard, Gareth Bale. Away on his loan spell with Tottenham Hotspur, this season would be particularly important for Bale to make his way out of the pressure created by critics. It would now be safe to say that Bale has taken the first step toward it. Not a huge leap, but one small decent step in the right direction.

After a sharp outing against AC Milan in the final game of the preseason, it was pretty clear that Ancelotti’s tricks had worked for Bale. Don Carlo is renowned for his man-managing skills and going forward Bale is a player who can profit most out of him. He needs that extra bit of support and encouragement right now.

Bale has been through a difficult phase as a player, he spent a season on loan due to straining relations with his manager, and then battled through retirement thoughts. But the last outing was a positive one. He took shots, took on opponents, and linked up brilliantly with Benz and Eden Hazard before being replaced by Rodrygo Goes.

He did look refreshed and Don Carlo’s tactics clearly are intent on getting the best out of the Welshman. We hope there’s much more of the same to come from him as the season progresses.