Three defeats in five Champions League matches and a precarious spot in the group stage—Real Madrid, the 15-time European champions, are in uncharted waters. Following a 2-0 loss to Liverpool, Carlo Ancelotti's side sits 24th in the standings, raising serious questions about their campaign in a tournament they have historically dominated.
Champions League Struggles for Real Madrid
The new Champions League format, which automatically qualifies the top eight teams for the last-16 while the 9th-24th positions enter a playoff, has not favored Madrid so far. Currently at 24th, the defending champions are at risk of an early exit.
Superstars Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham failed to make an impact against Liverpool, with Mbappe's missed penalty epitomizing a night to forget for Los Blancos. Even Bellingham admitted post-match that Liverpool “were more up for it.”
This marked Madrid’s third loss in five matches, a stark contrast to their dominance in previous seasons, where they suffered just three losses in their last 24 games in the competition.
Mbappe: Struggling to Shine in Madrid
Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid was surrounded by immense hype, but the French forward has struggled to live up to expectations. Against Liverpool, his performance drew sharp criticism, with former Madrid midfielder Steve McManaman stating:
“Mbappe flattered to deceive. Madrid needed him, and he didn’t deliver. The Madrid press will be ruthless.”
Mbappe’s challenges extend beyond the penalty miss. His role overlaps with that of teammate Vinicius Jr., raising tactical concerns about how both players can coexist effectively. Even in Vinicius’ absence due to injury, Mbappe has failed to find his rhythm.
Injuries and Ancelotti Under Fire
Real Madrid’s problems are not confined to Mbappe. Injuries have plagued the squad, with key players like Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr., Aurelien Tchouameni, David Alaba, and Eder Militao all sidelined.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti, despite his stellar track record, faces mounting pressure. Spanish media have questioned his ability to turn the season around, while his cryptic comments about substitutions suggest tension with the club’s hierarchy.
"Alarming" Form Raises Concerns
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand described Real Madrid’s current state as “alarming,” emphasizing the lack of cohesion on the pitch. He pointed out the importance of individual performances, particularly from superstars like Mbappe, to lift the team during such crises.
“When you have superstars, you can change your season at any point. Mbappe will want to prove he’s the guy. That moment has to come soon, or they could be heading out,” Ferdinand said.
Ancelotti's Optimism Amid Turmoil
Despite the challenges, Ancelotti remains defiant. The Italian manager assured fans that Real Madrid will rebound:
“We will qualify to the next round and compete as we do every year. You will see.”
History suggests it’s unwise to write off Real Madrid in the Champions League. However, with Mbappe underperforming, a growing injury list, and doubts about Ancelotti’s tactics, the path forward looks uncertain.
Can Real Madrid Bounce Back?
Real Madrid’s pedigree in the Champions League is unrivaled, but their current form raises serious questions about their ability to contend this season. Mbappe, Bellingham, and Ancelotti will need to step up if the Spanish giants are to navigate this rough patch and restore their dominance in Europe.
The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether Real Madrid can turn their season around—or face an early exit in a competition they have long mastered.