Spanish reports suggest that Real Madrid has used the fewest substitutes among La Liga teams this season. This statistic paints a less-than-flattering picture of Carlo Ancelotti's approach, as it highlights his limited utilization of the squad's depth—a strategy that has arguably had a negative impact on the team as a whole.
One of football's foundational principles is competition within the squad. When players feel secure in their starting positions without the pressure of competition, their performance often declines. This phenomenon has been evident in several Real Madrid stars this season. Ancelotti’s reluctance to fully integrate young talents like Arda Güler, Brahim Díaz, and Endrick into the rotation has raised concerns. Their limited minutes do not reflect their potential contributions to the team.
To avoid potential setbacks, Ancelotti may need to rethink his approach after the international break. Continuing with this strategy risks derailing the season and leaving Real Madrid without significant achievements. Greater squad rotation could not only preserve the fitness of key players but also nurture the promising talents waiting for their chance to shine.