Three Departures That Weakened Real Madrid’s Core

Real Madrid is facing a challenging season, largely attributed to the departures of three key players: Toni Kroos, Nacho Fernández, and Joselu. These players, who were instrumental in maintaining the team’s stability and tactical cohesion, have left significant voids that are proving difficult to fill.

Toni Kroos, known for his precision, vision, and ability to control the tempo of matches, has been the most notable loss. His absence has left a gaping hole in Real Madrid’s midfield. Without Kroos, the team has struggled to maintain possession and create opportunities through intricate play. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has had to adapt by implementing a more direct style of play, bypassing the midfield altogether. Despite the efforts of Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga, neither has managed to replicate Kroos’s level of influence, leaving the team vulnerable in critical moments.

The departure of Nacho Fernández, a versatile and dependable defender, has further compounded Real Madrid’s defensive challenges. Nacho, who could seamlessly slot into multiple positions across the backline, was a safety net for Ancelotti, especially during injury crises. His decision to join a Saudi Arabian club has exposed the lack of depth in Real Madrid’s defense. With Dani Carvajal sidelined due to injury, the absence of Nacho’s leadership and adaptability has made the defensive frailties more pronounced.

Joselu, a striker who offered physicality and a hold-up play option, was another vital squad member whose exit has been keenly felt. While not a consistent starter, Joselu provided Ancelotti with tactical flexibility, particularly in games requiring a more direct or physical approach. Without him, the attacking options have become one-dimensional, forcing the team to rely heavily on players like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, who thrive in different styles of play.

Real Madrid’s focus on pursuing marquee signings like Kylian Mbappé and investing in young talents such as Endrick may have overshadowed the importance of retaining experienced squad players. While these moves highlight the club’s ambition, they have inadvertently left the current squad unbalanced, with glaring weaknesses in depth and experience.

The January transfer window presents a critical opportunity for Real Madrid to address these deficiencies. However, integrating new players mid-season poses its challenges, and Ancelotti will need to ensure the team adapts quickly to restore its competitive edge. The coming months will be crucial for Real Madrid as they aim to rebuild and reclaim their dominance in domestic and European competitions.