Title: Ancelotti Shakes Up Real Madrid's Lineup for Copa Del Rey Clash against Celta Vigo
Carlo Ancelotti, under scrutiny following Real Madrid's 5-2 Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona, is set to emphasize change in the squad when they face Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey last 16 on Thursday.
After the lackluster display against Barcelona, Ancelotti criticized his team for their first-half performance and shoddy defensive play. The fallout continued when he was summoned for an "urgent" meeting with the club's CEO and held a cagey press conference ahead of the Celta Vigo tie.
Ancelotti acknowledged the importance of commitment and individual accountability, remarking on the team's collective shortfall in El Clasico. He also expressed that the team's defensive play across all lines was in need of improvement, though no further evaluation was provided.
One notable alteration Ancelotti plans to implement is the inclusion of Andriy Lunin as the goalkeeper, replacing Thibaut Courtois, in what marks his first major adjustment. In the backline, Fran Garcia will take over for Ferland Mendy at left back, while Raul Asencio replaces Aurelien Tchouameni to partner Toni Rudiger in the center. Meanwhile, right back Lucas Vazquez will hold onto his position.
In midfield, Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde, and Jude Bellingham face the ax, making way for Dani Ceballos, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Luka Modric to form a new trio.
On the wings, Vinicius Jr. retains his spot on the left, with Rodrygo making way for Brahim Diaz on the right. Kylian Mbappé, who scored inside the first five minutes against Barcelona, will lead the attack from his central position in hopes of guiding Real Madrid to victory and securing a place in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals.
Ancelotti mentioned Jude Bellingham as one of the midfielders potentially leaving the starting lineup, with Aurelien Tchouameni and Luka Modric expected to fill in.
In the forward line, Kylian Mbappe, who shone against Barcelona, will continue to lead the attack, while Rodrygo makes way for Brahim Diaz on the right wing.
Bellingham's possible exit from the midfield could open an opportunity for FC Barcelona's transfer target, as media speculations link the talented English player to a move to the Catalan giants.
If Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. were to leave Real Madrid, it could further strengthen Barcelona's interest in the two stars, with Kylian Mbappe already being on their radar.
