Three losses in five games. Staring at a shaky qualification. This isn’t where 15-time Champions League winners Real Madrid thought they’d be.
A 2-0 defeat by Liverpool left the reigning champs at the very edge, ranked 24th in the table. In the tournament’s revamped format, the top eight sail into the last-16. But Madrid’s position means a tough two-legged playoff looms.
With superstars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham faltering, things look grim. Even Ancelotti, the seasoned tactician, seems stuck in the mud.
Mbappé Fails to Shine
Kylian Mbappé’s much-hyped move to Madrid was meant to electrify the team. Instead, it’s raised more questions than answers.
His missed penalty against Liverpool? Painful. His overall impact? Minimal. Without Vinícius Jr. to share the load, Mbappé had a golden chance to step up. He didn’t.
Former Madrid player Steve McManaman didn’t mince words. “Mbappé flattered to deceive. Madrid needed him, and he didn’t show up.”
Even Bellingham, trying to lift the mood, acknowledged the pressure on his teammate. “Kylian’s a wonderful player. He’ll deliver big moments for this club.”
Injuries, Bellingham, and Ancelotti’s Struggles
Blaming Mbappé alone misses the bigger picture. Jude Bellingham, another superstar, hasn’t scored a single Champions League goal this season.
The 21-year-old’s form took a hit after the Euros, where he felt scapegoated for England’s loss. Critics expected more from him, and he knows it.
Meanwhile, Real’s injury list keeps growing. Losing Camavinga at Anfield adds to an already staggering roster: Carvajal, Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Tchouaméni, Alaba, and Militão. It’s a mess.
Even Carlo Ancelotti, usually calm and composed, is feeling the heat. His snappy remarks during pressers hint at tension behind the scenes. With Real’s leadership reportedly questioning his tactics, the clock might be ticking.
Alarming Signs for Real Madrid
Real Madrid isn’t used to struggling in Europe. The Champions League has always been their playground. Yet this season, cracks are showing.
Rio Ferdinand, summing it up, called their form “alarming.” The team looks disjointed, and the superstars seem unsure of their roles.
But if there’s one thing Real knows, it’s how to fight back. Ancelotti’s post-match words reflected that signature grit. “We’ll qualify. We’ll compete like we always do. You’ll see.”
For now, though, Madrid’s troubles are undeniable. The clock’s ticking, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
