Real Madrid manager faces key decision ahead of Spanish Super Cup semi-final | OneFootball

Real Madrid are set to face Mallorca in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on the back of their best form this season. Their performances have significantly improved in recent weeks, and this surge in form has allowed them to take the top spot in La Liga.

This upturn in form has enabled Ancelotti to settle on a regular starting XI, with only a few positions being rotated based on the opponent or match situation.

Aurelien Tchouameni has become a key figure, forming a solid partnership with Antonio Rudiger in defence, pushing aside players like Raul Asencio.

On the attacking front, Rodrygo has managed to regain his starting position, despite the impressive rise of Brahim Diaz, who has been making his mark with standout performances.

Midfield is a conundrum

The only real uncertainty in the starting line-up now lies between Dani Ceballos and Eduardo Camavinga for a spot in midfield.

Ceballos has seen his role grow in recent months. He has taken full advantage of Camavinga’s injuries, earning significant playing time.

Carlo Ancelotti has a big decision to make. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

This season, he has clocked 699 minutes of play, starting in five of the last seven league games and also in the cup tie against Deportiva Minera.

In comparison, Camavinga, who has been limited by two injury spells, has played 772 minutes this season.

Big decision for Ancelotti

With Tchouameni now operating as a centre-back, Camavinga is the only remaining available pivot in midfield.

The Frenchman started five consecutive league games before picking up a muscle injury at Anfield, and since then, it has been challenging for him to regain his starting role.

In his absence, he was occasionally deployed as a left-back, as seen in games against Sevilla and Valencia.

Now, Ancelotti faces a crucial decision. With Mallorca expected to adopt a defensive and counterattacking approach, the choice between Ceballos and Camavinga becomes even more significant.

Ceballos offers a more creative and associative style of play, while Camavinga brings a more robust, defensive presence to the midfield. Both players have their strengths, and Ancelotti will need to choose based on the tactical needs of the match.