3 reasons why October is a defining month for Real Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti
Last month was quite a rollercoaster ride for Real Madrid fans. We entered September with a brilliant win 5-2 win over Celta Vigo, we travelled to San Siro and sealed a late winner through a Rodrygo Goes goal, we picked up three crucial points at the Mestalla and dismantled RCD Mallorca in a 6-1 win.
It all looked golden for Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti until then but in the final few days of September Los Blancos’ hot run of form fell short against Villarreal in La Liga and Sherrif Tiraspol in the UEFA Champions League.
It’s obvious that the loss against Sherrif in the Champions League would cause a stir in the media and amongst the fans. But it’s not worth overreacting or over analysing as Eesh Jhamb wrote the same.
In no way am I denying that the loss against Sherrif was a bitter pill to swallow but now Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid move on to more important things as the month of October is going to be a gruelling test. Let’s have a look at why.
THE MUCH-AWAITED RETURN FOR REAL MADRID
Toni Kroos marked his return on the big stage after three months of absence, the German midfielder played roughly over 20 minutes against Sheriff in the UEFA Champions League after recovering from a groin injury.
Despite the loss, Kroos’ introduction into the game brought a sense of stability and calmness in the midfield that had been lacking in his absence. His laser-sharp passing and his nerves of steel when on the ball make him one of the world’s very best midfielders.
Kroos’ return is a huge plus point for Carlo Ancelotti who can now add more to his midfield with the former Bayern Munich midfielder. With fixtures coming hard and fast in October, Toni Kroos’ recovery has come at the right time.
While the 31-year-old’s return is a huge win, there’s a far more important return for Carlo Ancelotti. Ferland Mendy who last featured for Madrid in the UCL semi-final against Chelsea is set to return shortly.
The French left-back suffered from a stress fracture in the tibia against Chelsea and since then has spent time on the sidelines making his way back to full fitness. According to Marca, Mendy is not yet feeling 100% fitness as he returned to training alone but will soon be back on track to mark his return into the starting eleven.
The 26-year-old has been one of Real Madrid’s most important players especially because of the defensive stability he brings onto the left-flank. The defence has missed Mendy’s presence lately and his return could help solidify the backline.
There were reports about Ancelotti wanting to play the former Lyon defender as a centre-back. However, taking such a risk would be a huge gamble for the Italian given the magnitude of fixtures that lie ahead.