Real Madrid: Karim Benzema’s biggest test and 5 takeaways from the season so far

Carlo Ancelotti can’t revive everyone

Real Madrid fans were optimistic that Carlo Ancelotti, a noted player’s coach, could help coax better form out of the out-of-favor veteran players. And at times, he has. Gareth Bale scored against Levante and looked promising before an injury. Isco had some bright moments to start the season. And though he has been cast aside on the bench, Eden Hazard was doing a great job of creating chances at one point.

Though there were these positives, the trio of Hazard, Isco, and Bale has been unable to assert themselves in a meaningful way. Bale’s injuries continue to get the better of him, and while he could help the team, Real Madrid cannot rely on him in any way.

Hazard is in a similar situation with injuries. But more to the point, he does not fit the team even when fit. Hazard is now a central playmaker. Real Madrid do not have this position their 4-3-3. The free role unbalances the formation too much. Meanwhile, Hazard is no longer a winger stylistically, and his old position, left wing, has been taken up by a much better player in Vinicius Junior.

Isco has been the most intriguing of the three, but his situation is a little similar to Hazard’s. In the modern game, Isco does not fit what Madrid need from their midfielders and wingers. And if they want to accommodate a central playmaker, why him over Marco Asensio or Hazard? The latter is better, and the former can still be sold. Isco’s contract is running out anyway.

Ancelotti cannot work miracles. He has helped these three players on the pitch, but in each case, something within the team’s stability was sacrificed. Most of all, Ancelotti cannot change injury struggles or contractual situations. He can only work with the hand he is dealt.