By Abigail Philip David
Real Madrid, the record 15-time UEFA Champions League winners, are under pressure to deliver as they prepare to face Serie A leaders Atalanta in a crucial group-stage match on Tuesday. With only two wins in their first five games, Madrid find themselves in 24th place, dangerously close to elimination, as only the top 24 teams advance beyond the group phase.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side travel to Bergamo with their Champions League future hanging in the balance, followed by must-win games against RB Salzburg at home and Brest away.
Madrid’s Struggles
Madrid’s season has been marred by injuries to key players, including Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Eduardo Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, and David Alaba. Even versatile midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who has occasionally filled in as a defender, has only recently returned from injury.
Superstar summer signing Kylian Mbappé has also faced challenges adjusting to his new environment. Despite scoring 11 goals in 21 games, the 25-year-old forward has underperformed by his high standards, with missed penalties against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao amplifying scrutiny.
“He isn’t at his best level, but we have to give him time to adapt,” Ancelotti said last week. “He can do better, and he’s working to do that.”
Off-field issues have also plagued Mbappé, including disputes with PSG over unpaid wages and reports of legal trouble in Sweden, which the player has denied.
Atalanta’s Strong Form
Atalanta, meanwhile, are unbeaten in the Champions League and lead Serie A, sitting fifth in the UCL standings. Known for their high-energy and attacking football, they represent a tough test for an injury-hit Madrid side.
Selection Dilemmas
Ancelotti will welcome back Brazilian wingers Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes, offering a much-needed boost in attack. However, Vinícius’ return reignites a debate about positioning, as both he and Mbappé prefer the left wing. Ancelotti has alternated Mbappé between center-forward and the left flank, but has yet to find a consistently effective solution.
The coach acknowledged Madrid’s inconsistency this season, citing it as a team-wide issue rather than just Mbappé’s struggles. “It’s not a funeral—we’re still fighting in all competitions,” Ancelotti said. “We have to be optimistic because we have a quality squad. We’ve had problems, but I am convinced we will find our form sooner or later.”
Turning the Tide
Madrid’s dominant 3-0 victory over Girona in La Liga last Saturday provided a glimpse of their potential. A convincing performance against Atalanta could help quell growing concerns and restore confidence in the Spanish capital.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Ancelotti’s men, who must find a way to navigate their challenges and deliver on the European stage.
