Carlo Ancelotti To Change Real Madrid’s Formation Next Season To Accommodate Bellingham

Carlo Ancelotti has continued Real Madrid’s traditional 4-3-3 formation after returning to the helm a few years ago.

With Karim Benzema leading the frontline, alongside two wide forwards, the formula has worked quite well for Los Blancos, who notably bagged Copa Del Rey, UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles in the past two years.

However, with Benzema leaving the club and Real Madrid bringing in Jude Bellingham, there might be a shift in Real Madrid’s tactical formation.

This has been reported by AS, which suggests Carlo Ancelotti might shift to a 4-3-1-2 formation next season in order to accommodate Bellingham into the team.

The English international, who was brought in from Borussia Dortmund for a substantial fee, is likely to operate in the number ten role, just behind the two forwards. Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo are likely to fill up the attacking positions, following the departure of Benzema.

But should Real Madrid succeed in the pursuit of Kylian Mbappe this summer, there is a chance the Frenchman could accompany Vinicius up front.

In midfield, Ancelotti is likely to continue with two veterans Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Their experience and leadership have been invaluable to Real Madrid over the past decade. The club would hope to squeeze the best out of them in their final year at the Bernabeu.

The likes of Dani Ceballos and Federico Valverde will also compete for those two spots.

Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga should compete for defensive midfield position in the 4-3-1-2. It will not come as a surprise to see Ancelotti reducing Modric and Kroos’ game-time, in favour of the younger individuals, as the club slowly prepare for a transition.

Not much of a change is expected in defence, though Real Madrid most certainly require reinforcements, particularly in the full-back areas.