Ancelotti Faces Queiroz-Like Challenges

Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Real Madrid, has found himself compared to former manager Carlos Queiroz following the team’s disappointing 3-1 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The parallels are rooted in tactical challenges and the difficulty of managing a star-studded squad, reminiscent of Real Madrid’s struggles during Queiroz’s tenure in the 2003-04 season.

The defeat in Jeddah exposed several critical weaknesses, particularly in defensive organization and team cohesion. Critics have noted that while Real Madrid boasts some of the world’s most talented players—such as Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Bellingham—the team often relies on individual brilliance rather than cohesive tactics. This over-reliance has left them vulnerable against stronger opponents.

One of the key challenges facing Ancelotti is balancing the team’s offensive firepower with defensive stability. While the attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius, and Rodrygo excels against lower-tier teams, it has struggled to deliver consistent results against elite clubs like Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool. This highlights the need for tactical flexibility and a more disciplined approach to high-pressure games.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has publicly downplayed the importance of the Super Cup loss, framing it as a minor setback. However, fans and analysts see it as a wake-up call, emphasizing the need for immediate adjustments. The current concerns echo the Queiroz era, when a team filled with superstars—such as Zidane, Ronaldo, and Beckham—failed to achieve expected success due to a lack of balance and depth.

As Real Madrid looks ahead to its upcoming challenges in La Liga and the Champions League, Ancelotti’s ability to address these tactical shortcomings will be under intense scrutiny. His mission is not only to secure victories but to restore the balance and unity necessary for sustained success at the highest level of football.