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On Tuesday night, Carlo Ancelotti took out his toolbox when it came to composing his starting eleven against Stuttgart in the Champions League. Indeed, the Italian coach had to tinker in defense. Although he was able to count on Ferland Mendy, to occupy the left flank, and on Antonio Rüdiger, positioned in the left central axis, the Mister made some adjustments on the right side. Lucas Vazquez, who is not a professional full-back, but who has been playing the role of Dani Carvajal’s understudy for a while, was in the starting lineup. Carvajal, for his part, was lined up in the center alongside Rüdiger. A surprising choice, especially since the 1m73 Spaniard was not necessarily comfortable in this position against the Germans. Carlo Ancelotti quickly rectified the situation at half-time with the exit of Vazquez, replaced by Eder Militão. The Casa Blanca coach did not want to take any risks with the Brazilian, who has not been spared from physical problems although he is 100% according to what his coach said on Monday in a press conference.
Real Madrid probes defender market
Finally, he had to call on him at half-time against Stuttgart when his defence was taking on water. He joined Rüdiger in the centre, while Carvajal returned to his position as right-back. The Merengues ultimately came out of it well and won 3-1. But this match confirmed the doubts of the Iberian press about the Spanish and European champion team. The media consider that the team is not strong and balanced enough. An opinion clearly shared by Ancelotti, who plans to use 4 midfielders and do without one of his attackers during crucial matches or away. Rodrygo should be sacrificed. The match against Stuttgart also highlighted the defensive flaws and the lack of solutions at the back. Indeed, the residents of the Santiago Bernabéu stadium did not replace Nacho, who joined Saudi Arabia this summer. David Alaba, for his part, is still in the infirmary. The Austrian should make his return in November if all goes well.
Ancelotti is therefore relying on Antonio Rüdiger, who could quickly tire from playing so many games, Eder Militaão, who has often been let down by his body, or Jesus Vallejo, who does not fit into his plans. For these reasons, Real Madrid wanted to recruit a central defender this summer. Leny Yoro was also the priority. But the 19-year-old Frenchman signed for Manchester United. The Merengues have therefore decided to put this file aside, while Carlo Ancelotti was campaigning for the arrival of Aymeric Laporte (Al-Nassr) behind the scenes. But Real Madrid is clearly changing its mind, even if the Mister could possibly call on youngsters from La Cantera. Indeed, AS reveals that the Spanish leaders are scrutinizing the market for central defenders with interest, but without necessarily rushing. In addition to injuries and the infernal pace of the season, they want to prepare for the future while Rüdiger (31 years old) and Alaba (32 years old) are getting older.
A priority named Yarek Gasiorowski
They intend to get their hands on a young player who, in the future, will form the defensive pair with Militão (26 years old). According to the Iberian media, Yarek Gasiorowski (19 years old) has all the qualities that appeal to Florentino Pérez’s club, who are keeping a close eye on him. From the same generation as Yoro, that of 2005, the 1m92 left-footed central defender is described as a physically powerful player with enormous potential. Real Madrid, who have monitored him on several occasions, have made glowing reports about the Spanish U19 international. But there could be some obstacles regarding his signing. Indeed, Valencia FC, the club where he is under contract until 2026, does not have a good relationship with the Madrilenians according to AS. Which could complicate the matter. In addition, it will be necessary to put a lot of money on the table, which had put Real Madrid off for Yoro. For the versatile Gasiorowski, who can also play as a left-back, his release clause is €45 million.
But AS explains that he could leave for less if the Madrilenians manage to reach an agreement with the club he loves, which can also automatically extend his contract until 2027 when he has played 20 games with the professional team. This season, the Spanish-Polish player has played in 2 matches in all competitions. Then, he has remained on the bench during his team’s last 3 outings. A difficult situation to live through for the player, a great hope of Iberian football. His qualities have not escaped the notice of other clubs. This summer, Atlético de Madrid checked his name. More recently, Salzburg and Inter have also positioned themselves and made inquiries about him. Strong competitors for Real Madrid, who have many arguments to convince the Polinyà de Xúquer native.
