Real Madrid faces Salzburg today in the penultimate match of the Champions League group stage, with the team missing Lucas Vazquez due to suspension for accumulating yellow cards. This leaves coach Carlo Ancelotti with a tactical decision, as one player will need to be shifted to fill the gap.
According to Defensa Central, Fede Valverde will step into Vazquez’s defensive position, a role he has been tested in during recent training sessions. Ancelotti acknowledged the difficulty of the change, telling Valverde, “I know you don’t like playing there…” However, the Uruguayan midfielder has expressed his full commitment to playing wherever the coach deems necessary.
Valverde, while primarily known for his role in midfield, has shown his versatility in the past, excelling as a right-back due to his speed, strength, and defensive capabilities. Though his shift to defense could result in a loss of some midfield dynamism, Ancelotti is confident in Valverde’s ability to handle the role effectively.
Another option for Ancelotti is Raul Asensio, who has been considered for the position but has yet to prove himself as a viable solution in the defensive line.
Real Madrid needs to win their remaining matches and score as many goals as possible to secure qualification, as they are not entirely in control of their own fate. Ancelotti will be relying on key players like Kylian Mbappé, who has been in excellent form recently, to lead the charge against Salzburg.
