3 Real Madrid players that Carlo Ancelotti can experiment with in different positions
FERLAND MENDY- CENTRE BACK
Ferland Mendy’s return from injury has helped Real Madrid in many ways. Not only has it made the defence a lot more stable, but it has also taken the burden off the defensive responsibilities of many other players. For example, David Alaba felt a lot more comfortable in the El Clasico to drive forward since he knew Mendy would cover in for him and that also led to a goal.
Apart from being a great defender, Mendy also helps in carrying the ball forward and is often part of the build-up process. However, the 26-year-old lacks the cutting edge on most occasions to deliver a promising pass or cross into the box when entering the final third. This has been the case for Mendy since signing for Real Madrid.
While it’s clear as daylight that Mendy is not an elite passer of the ball, he can definitely play as a centre-back due to his defensive prowess. Mendy can occasionally fill in the LCB spot that belongs to David Alaba, who can then shift out wide on the left flank. Not only is Alaba effective as a defender but he’s a serious threat when going forward due to his passing and shooting ability.
Next. Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti already achieved his most important task. dark
Carlo Ancelotti had considered using Mendy as a centre-back at the start of the season but the Frenchman was unavailable due to an injury he sustained against Chelsea in May.
With Ferland Mendy now back to full fitness, Ancelotti can consider implementing his experiment on the 26-year-old. There are some downsides to playing Mendy as a centre-back since he’s not very comfortable on the ball while being pressed nor is he very useful when building up from the back. It is a gamble but it could be one that can pay off well.