Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory, but the win was overshadowed by concerns over key players’ fitness. coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed relief after what he described as a very good first part and a second more suffered due to a lack of control. However,the match left the team facing potential absences,particularly David Alaba,who exited with a left leg issue—the same leg where he suffered a crusader rupture in December 2023. Adding to the woes, eduardo Camavinga couldn’t finish the game due to discomfort in his left abductor, leaving Real Madrid with only 10 players after exhausting their substitutions.

Ancelotti remains optimistic about Camavinga’s swift recovery, stating, I see it’s recovery for Saturday. With Ferland Mendy also sidelined, Fran García is likely to fill the left-back position for the upcoming match at the Cartuja stadium. Lamine Yamal is expected to feature on the opposing side.

Strategic Rotations Amidst Injury Concerns

Despite the pressure in the league,Ancelotti strategically rested key players such as Antonio Rüdiger,Dani ceballos,Jude Bellingham,and Rodrygo,providing opportunities for youngsters like Endrick,Arda Güler,and Brahim Díaz,who joined Vinícius Júnior in the attack. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé continued his recovery at home.

Güler’s Impact and Ancelotti’s Praise

The victory hinged on Thibaut Courtois’s saves and Arda Güler’s decisive goal. Güler’s performance stood out during what was described as Lexatín football, with his goal from outside the area—his fourth of the season—proving the difference. Ancelotti lauded Güler’s contribution, saying, He did very well, with ideas, a lot of tranquility, in his own way.

Real Madrid’s struggles in creating opportunities this season have made Güler’s emergence a welcome development. Ancelotti had previously suggested Güler could play as an interior midfielder, a role he has rarely occupied. The coach had urged patience for the young player, emphasizing the need to wait for his chance. In the Getafe match, Güler, flanked by Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde, dictated the team’s rythm. Ancelotti rewarded Güler’s performance with a hug and a kiss, with Güler stating, I have played in a position where I feel very agreeable, so I’m even happier.

Tactical flexibility and Güler’s Role

ancelotti explained that Güler’s limited appearances in that position were due to the team’s 4-4-2 formation, which restricts him to playing as a right-sided midfielder. In this system, he cannot play as a double pivot, only as a right end. With a 4-3-3 as today, he can do it very well as an interior. He works a lot, although he lacks a little forcefulness in the duels. but he has a lot 4-3-3, Ancelotti elaborated. After halftime, with Camavinga’s exit and reduced possession, Güler’s influence waned, leading to his substitution in the 77th minute.

Ancelotti’s Message to Endrick

Real madrid’s recent victories have been narrow,with the last three league wins decided by a single goal.Ancelotti acknowledged the team’s need for improved finishing, stating, We have looked for more solidity, but we lack effectiveness in front. Addressing Endrick’s performance, Ancelotti critiqued a missed opportunity, saying, In the first, I could not do it. The second could be out of play, but, indeed, you can’t do these things [una vaselina fallida]. He is young, he has to learn. You have to throw as strongly as possible, not make theater club. That in football does not exist.