Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti considering taking a huge selection gamble against Arsenal in tomorrow’s Champions League quarter final second leg.
The Spanish giants require what would be another remarkable act of escapology if they are to progress to the semi finals following last week’s 3-0 defeat in north London.
Fede Valverde toiled as a makeshift right-back at the Emirates Stadium and was moved into his customary midfield role with 20 minutes remaining haven been given the runaround by Gabriel Martinelli.
According to AS, with Real needing at least four goals to progress, Ancelotti is giving thought to pairing Valverde with Aurelien Tchouameni in his engine room.
Valverde has been forced to play at right-back on numerous occasions this season as a result of the serious injury sustained by Real stalwart Dani Carvajal.
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Such is his need for goals, however, that Ancelotti is minded to select Valverde in his favourite position and select Lucas Vazquez at right-back.
Eduardo Camavinga’s suspension, meanwhile, means the Real boss also has to problem to solve at left-back.
Real Madrid’s possible line-up against Arsenal
David Alaba offers an obvious solution but the Austria international has struggled with from and fitness this season and Fran Garcia, who came on as a late substitute last week, could provide an alternative.
Despite being in such an advantageous position, Arsenal are unlikely to sit back and defend and will instead default to the type of game that has brought them so much success in Europe so far this season.
‘The result always does something to you, it changes you,’ said Mikel Merino, in an interview with Cope earlier this week.
Will Arsenal sit and defend their lead vs Real Madrid?
‘What we’ve done all season is stay true to our way of playing, to be dominant, to be brave.
‘In any tie, the psychological aspect is important, and with Madrid, even more so because of everything that lies behind it; but the team is ready.
‘We have to adapt to whatever happens and stay focused. Mentally, we work hard every day. The manager puts us in stressful situations and prepares us for any type of match.’