Real Madrid were all class against Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final tie. Los Blancos were the better team, dominated over the two legs and had numerous good moments. The team looked good on the pitch but on paper Carlo Ancelotti was once again covering the apparent cracks with his ingenuity and his players’ ability to adapt.
Once again, the starting left-back was a makeshift arrangement. The fact that Eduardo Camavinga has been a revelation in the position; has consistently helped Real Madrid overcome the fact that the club is still to find an able heir to a position where legends have donned the famous royal white shirt.
The transition from Roberto Carlos to Marcelo was smooth. But Real Madrid are yet to find a permanent solution to the left-back conundrum this time around.
Even though Camavinga starting the game at left-back was not a surprise as he has been a trustworthy option there in the last few months. But for both the legs, the squad list had the Frenchman under the ‘Midfielders’ section, while Lucas Vazquez found himself categorised as a ‘Defender’.
Camavinga handed Real Madrid dilemma
Vazquez has represented the Spain national team on a few occasions. However, his inability to secure regular minutes for Real Madrid and the lack of clarity and consistency about his position has had a negative impact on his career. The speedy winger used to be a reliable option going forward and was only supposed to be temporary back up for Dani Carvajal, the same as Camavinga now in the opposite full-back position.
Another factor which may affect Camavinga’s situation is the future of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. Both have been world class for years and in order to replace them in the long term, the management has brought in many a talent to the club. There are the likes of Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos and Federico Valverde. Jude Bellingham is believed to be a summer transfer target as well.
Camavinga may have to make a critical decision in the near future. His playing position is definitely up for debate. If Real Madrid are unable to sign a world-class left-back in the summer, there is a good possibility that they could continue to deploy the Frenchman there.
Of course, this very versatility has made Camavinga an absolute favourite of both the fans and the management. So much that there have been talks of a contract renewal already. But he cannot ignore the risks that come with it as well.