Real Madrid: The three best starting XI’s that include Eden Hazard

ATTACKING MIDFIELDER

The 4-1-2-1-2 formation was one that was used during Zinedine Zidane’s managerial reign at Real Madrid. More specifically, Zidane used it during the 2016/17 and 2017/18 seasons.

It was a formation that Real Madrid thrived in as they could control the majority of their matches by dominating possession and playing through the middle of the pitch.

In utilizing the 4-1-2-1-2 formation, a critical asset that culminated in its success was the attacking midfield role. Isco occupied this role, and it was one that he ultimately thrived in. With his ability to roam freely and interlink play in the middle of the park, Isco was simply untouchable in that system.

With that being mentioned, it’s certainly worth a try for Carlo Ancelotti to revert to this formation this season and utilize Eden Hazard in the attacking midfield role.

Hazard’s intricate touches, quick passes, and sharp movements could see him thrive as a number 10. Moreover, he would also be given the ability to roam more freely and interlink play through the middle, and this could prove to be an asset for Real Madrid.

It’s also worth noting that Hazard is getting older, and playing as an out-and-out winger might not be the most ideal for the Belgian international. Playing more centrally could help him get back on track and back into the starting lineup as he hopes.

Should Ancelotti opt to line up Real Madrid in this formation, an ideal setup would be as follows:

Vinícius       Benzema

Hazard

Kroos   Casemiro   Modrić

Mendy        Alaba       Militão        Carvajal

Courtois