Real Madrid's dilemma at the back

Real Madrid already faced problems in defence last season with long-term injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba. On several occasions, Carlo Ancelotti had to turn to Aurelien Tchouameni to fill the position.

For the 2024-25 campaign, the Italian will have to deal with the departure of Nacho and the recovery of Alaba. For the time being, he will do so without any signings, apart from the return of Jesus Vallejo from his loan spell at Granada. 

In principle, the two first-choice defenders should be Antonio Rudiger, the best centre-back of last season for many, and Eder Militao, with the question mark over his fitness after his serious injury. Both are on holiday after international duty with their national teams.

David Alaba's inactivity seems to be going on for a long time. In fact, from Austria they see his return as impossible until 2025. This problem forces 'Los Blancos' to have available only 2 of the 4 centre-backs that the team had last year for half the season, as Nacho left the club. 

Aurelien Tchouameni could once again play an important role with the ‘Merengues’ as a defender. His performances, so far, in that position have been correct and Madrid did not miss either Militao or Alaba in 2023-24. 

The addition of Jesus Vallejo seems to be a testimonial, although Ancelotti has already shown that he has no problem in giving opportunities to players when the situation requires it. The player from Mano returns to the Madrid side after playing just three games with Granada.

As for the signings to reinforce the back line, Real Madrid were disappointed with the rejection of Leny Yoro, a young talent that has ended up being signed by Manchester United. Aymeric Laporte has also been mentioned after a good European Championship with Spain. On the other hand, the club sold Rafa Marin to Napoli after his outstanding performance for Alaves in La Liga.

The youth academy could also be a solution to the lack of centre-backs at the club. In ‘La Fabrica’, there are several promising players such as Jacobo Ramon and Raul Asencio who could train with the first team if necessary.