Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has unveiled an innovative strategy to combat player fatigue for the demanding 2024-2025 season, which includes seven competitions. The plan involves providing individualized vacations for players during the season, particularly those with international commitments.”We are thinking about giving the players a break, a holiday, and we are thinking about giving them individual breaks in some phases of the season. It can be that a player doesn’t play for a week and recovers with his family,” Ancelotti explained. This approach aims to address the physical and mental exhaustion players face due to the accumulation of games and stress.Ancelotti also praised new signing Kylian Mbappé’s integration into the team, describing him as “an extraordinary talent” who has entered the locker room “very seriously, with humility”. The coach emphasized the importance of helping Mbappé adapt quickly to the team dynamics.Regarding tactical decisions, Ancelotti clarified that Jude Bellingham will continue to play in the same position as last season, as a number 10 supporting Mbappé in attack, rather than as a false 9. The coach also confirmed that Real Madrid’s squad is now complete, with no further signings expected, including in defense, as David Alaba is set to return soon.Looking ahead to the La Liga season opener against Real Mallorca, Ancelotti expressed confidence in the team’s ability to defend their title and continue their recent successes. “We will fight to defend the title and continue our achievements,” he stated, while also acknowledging the competitive nature of the league with the arrival of experienced coaches.Despite the ambitious outlook, Ancelotti cautioned against setting specific targets like a potential sextuple, emphasizing the importance of focusing on each match as it comes. He also noted that while the team will miss the contributions of Toni Kroos, this presents an opportunity for adaptation and growth.
Key points
- Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti plans to implement individualized vacations for players during the 2024-2025 season to combat fatigue.
- Kylian Mbappé has integrated well into the team, with Ancelotti praising his humility and talent.
- Jude Bellingham will continue in his previous role, supporting Mbappé in attack.
- Real Madrid’s squad is complete, with no further signings expected.
- Ancelotti is confident about defending the La Liga title but cautions against setting specific targets like a sextuple.
