Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti highlighted the importance of his team's versatile playing styles in achieving an unbeaten run of 38 La Liga matches, a streak that spans parts of two seasons. Speaking on Monday, Ancelotti noted that Real Madrid’s ability to adapt their tactics has been key to their success.
The Spanish and European champions suffered only one league loss last season, falling to Atletico Madrid on September 24, 2023. Since then, they have not been beaten in La Liga, navigating through the end of last season and the beginning of this one without another defeat. Despite criticism from some in the Spanish media about their style of play, Ancelotti defended his team’s approach.
"For me I don't think it's like that, that we play badly," Ancelotti said in a news conference. "What stands out the most is that Real Madrid, over these years, doesn't have one single identity. We have done things well, defended well in a low block, had very quick transitions, managed possession well in some games."
Ancelotti emphasized that the lack of a fixed style has led to misunderstandings about their approach. "Not having a clear identity makes some think that we don't have a style. And that's the truth, we don't have a style, we have many styles."
Real Madrid’s unbeaten streak in La Liga, though impressive, is still short of the 43-match unbeaten record held by Barcelona, which was achieved between April 2017 and May 2018 under coaches Luis Enrique and Ernesto Valverde.
Madrid is set to host Alaves on Tuesday as they attempt to close the four-point gap between them and current La Liga leaders Barcelona. The match will also mark Ancelotti’s 300th game in charge of Real Madrid, spread across two separate tenures with the club.
Ancelotti confirmed that Kylian Mbappe, the team's top scorer, might be rested for the match against Alaves, mentioning that there would be “some rotations.” Vinicius Junior, who came off the bench in their recent 4-1 victory over Espanyol, could start the game. Ancelotti acknowledged that Madrid has been slow to score in the first half of games this season, having only managed to do so once.
"We should put more intensity in, but understanding that teams lower their intensity in the second halves and there's more space," said Ancelotti.
In terms of injuries, Ancelotti confirmed that midfielder Jude Bellingham, who appeared to injure his shoulder in the match against Espanyol, is fit to play against Alaves. Ancelotti also confirmed reports that French defender Ferland Mendy has extended his contract with the club until 2027.
