3 losses in 5 games. Looking at the shaking qualifications. This is not where 15-time Champions League winners Real Madrid thought they would be.
The 2-0 loss to Liverpool left the reigning champions 24th in the table. In the tournament’s revamped format, the top eight will advance to the round of 16. But Madrid’s position means a tough two-legged playoff looms.
With superstars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham faltering, things are looking bleak. Even veteran tactician Ancelotti seems to be stuck in the mud.
Mbappe did not shine
Kylian Mbappe’s move to Madrid was intended to revitalize the team. Instead, it raised more questions than answers.
The penalty kick he missed against Liverpool? sore. What is his overall impact? Minimum. With Vinicius Junior unable to share responsibility, Mbappe was given a golden opportunity to take a step forward. He wasn’t like that.
Former Madrid player Steve McManaman did not mince words. “Mbappe loved to cheat. “Madrid needed him but he didn’t show up.”
Even Bellingham, trying to make himself feel better, admitted the pressure he felt on his teammates. “Killian is a great player. He will bring important moments to this club.”
Injuries, Bellingham, Ancelotti’s struggles
Just blaming Mbappé misses the bigger picture. Another superstar, Jude Bellingham, has not scored a single goal in the Champions League this season.
The 21-year-old was devastated after the Euros and felt made a scapegoat for England’s defeat. Critics expected more from him and he knows it.
Meanwhile, Real’s injury list continues to grow. Losing Camavinga at Anfield would add Carvajal, Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Tchouaméni, Alaba and Militão to an already formidable roster. It’s a mess.
Even Carlo Ancelotti, who is usually calm and collected, is feeling the heat. His blunt remarks during the press conference hint at the tension behind the scenes. Time may be running out, with Real’s leadership reportedly questioning his tactics.
Warning signs for Real Madrid
Real Madrid is no stranger to struggling in Europe. The Champions League has always been their playground. But this season, cracks are showing.
Rio Ferdinand summed up and called their form “amazing”. The team seems disconnected and the superstars seem unsure of their roles.
But if there’s one thing Real know, it’s how to fight back. Ancelotti’s post-match words reflected his characteristic fighting spirit. “We will qualify. We will compete as always. You will see.”
But for now, Madrid’s problems are undeniable. The clock is ticking and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
