Fundamentally, Real Madrid is operating with a front two of Vinicius and Rodrygo. Behind them is the support of new signing Jude Bellingham, who has left a strong impression with 3 goals in 2 La Liga matches.
The harsh reality is that Vinicius appears less effective and uncomfortable when playing in the central attacking role. This issue first emerged in Los Blancos’ preseason matches.
When Vinicius operates on the wing, he typically receives the ball and moves into spaces more freely. With his speed and agility, the Brazilian player poses a constant threat to opposition defenders.
However, in the current setup where he partners with Rodrygo upfront, Vinicius often finds himself marked by two central defenders. He has to receive the ball in tight spaces while facing away from the goal. In essence, the 23-year-old player is denied the chance to utilize his speed.
Vinicius is no longer partnered with Benzema. Photo: AFP
Vinicius is no longer partnered with Benzema. Photo: AFP
Conversely, Bellingham impresses with his ability to move into threatening spaces around the opponent’s goal. Bellingham’s three goals emphasize Ancelotti’s clear intent.
In reality, Ancelotti’s new system has diminished the impact, threat, and involvement of Vinicius. This might be a short-term issue, but it demands a solution.
Another factor in Ancelotti’s new system is how full-back Fran Garcia is allowed to overlap and contribute to attacks regularly.
On paper, Vinicius is a central forward in the 4-4-2 or 4-3-1-2 systems and cannot play with the mindset of a winger when Garcia pushes high up the pitch.
If both are present in the same position and lose possession simultaneously, the consequences can be unpredictable, especially against teams with strong counterattacks. A case in point is Almeria’s opening goal against Real Madrid in the second round of La Liga.
In that match, Ancelotti warned Vinicius to be more cautious when Garcia was still relatively inexperienced and susceptible to losing the ball.
“Don’t always go solo, try to link up play in the higher areas of the field!” cameras captured Ancelotti’s dissatisfaction with Vinicius.
Ancelotti expressed his dissatisfaction with Vinicius after the Almeria victory. Photo: ESPN
Ancelotti expressed his dissatisfaction with Vinicius after the Almeria victory. Photo: ESPN
Vinicius’ response wasn’t provocative but was enough to create disagreements. It’s important to note that Ancelotti is a coach who values discipline on the field.
“I complained to him about not losing the ball dangerously anymore. He tried to explain, but I emphasized that no, at any cost, don’t lose the ball anymore,” Ancelotti was quoted by Marca.
The issue isn’t just a trivial exchange of words between a coach and a player during tense moments on the field. The reality is that the more Vinicius becomes frustrated, the less effective his ball control becomes. In such situations, Vinicius is more likely to take risks and attempt impulsive plays.
This would be a regrettable step back for Vinicius, considering the significant progress he has made over the past two years.
Although Rodrygo and Vinicius are close friends, they find it challenging to communicate in tight penalty box spaces. Rodrygo isn’t a traditional center forward. While he’s incredibly talented, versatile, and hardworking, he isn’t the perfect partner for Vinicius.
Guti, a former Bernabeu legend, commented: “The presence of Bellingham and Benzema’s absence has allowed Ancelotti to transition to a 4-4-2 formation more easily. It’s true that Vinicius will struggle when he gets closer to the penalty box, but I think he’ll adapt to that.”
In conclusion, Vinicius’ struggles to adapt to Ancelotti’s new system at Real Madrid have been evident. While the Brazilian winger’s frustrations pose a challenge, it’s essential to find solutions to maximize his potential and contribution to the team’s success. The tactical adjustments and player dynamics will play a crucial role in Vinicius’ development within the squad.
