Carvajal's Role as a Central Defender Under Ancelotti
Carvajal’s Strategic Shift to Central Defense
One of the latest resources Carlo Ancelotti might resort to is repositioning Dani Carvajal (32 years) as a central defender. In the previous season, he had to take on this role in two consecutive league matches: against Atlético de Madrid and Girona, both played at the Bernabéu. During the derby, he played as right center-back alongside Nacho, while against the Catalan team, he partnered with Tchouameni in a game crucial for the top of the league table.
Historical Context of Carvajal's Central Role
The first time Carvajal assumed the central defensive position was in the dying minutes of the return leg semi-final in the Champions League during the 2021-22 season against Chelsea. With few minutes left in extra time, he had to fill in for Nacho as Ancelotti had exhausted all substitutions. With support from Alaba, Carvajal reinforced the backline against Guardiola’s side.
Firmness and Adaptability in Defense
Notably, both Carvajal and Vallejo performed admirably defending against opposing attackers. Carvajal demonstrated his capability again during the return semi-final match against Manchester City, once again forming a successful partnership with Vallejo. The previous season, he returned to this position double-fold: early February when Madrid faced Atlético de Madrid and Girona, both at the Bernabéu. During the derby against Atlético, he was paired with Nacho, while against Girona, he joined forces with Tchouameni due to injuries affecting Nacho.
With Militao and Alaba sidelined long-term, the team's defensive coffers ran dry, leaving Carvajal and Nacho, both from the youths, as central defenders in a heavily scrutinized derby, which ended in a 1-1 draw. In a contrasting outcome, their partnership against Girona proved fruitful as Madrid dominated the game, with no threats throughout due to a stellar showing by Camavinga, who played in front of them.
If it comes down to calling upon Carvajal, Ancelotti wouldn’t hesitate; the Leganés player consistently performs at a high level...
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.