Carlo Ancelotti sees star midfielder as best option to fill-in at right-back

If Dani Carvajal’s injury was a massive blow to Real Madrid’s plans for the ongoing season, Lucas Vazquez’s injury only amplifies the concern.

The Spanish veteran, after all, was the only natural replacement for Carvajal in the team and his being out of action for three weeks leaves Los Blancos with no direct stand-in.

Further, Eder Militao’s setback means that the team no longer has the option of placing the Brazilian out wide, especially given the short staffing in the department.

Ancelotti’s preferred option

The triple injury blow to Real Madrid last night has the manager in a serious dilemma as to how to cover the newly formed voids.

Raul Asencio appears to be best placed to take over at centre-back and made a strong start to life with the senior team last night as he notched up an assist with a decent showing.

Now, Spanish journalist Rodra reveals that Federico Valverde is Ancelotti’s preferred option to play at right-back after Vazquez’s injury.

After all, the Uruguayan star did well against Osasuna playing as an emergency full-back and was defensively solid, denying the Pamplona-based side any attacking forays.

The solution is far from ideal as it deprives the team of one of the most potent forces in midfield both on and off the ball. However, it is the best Ancelotti can do given the current situation.

With a two-week hiatus from club football coming just in time, the Merengues will luckily miss Vazquez’s services only for one week if his recovery progresses as anticipated.

It remains to be seen if the board look for a new signing in the position in January and whether the reported transfer of Trent Alexander-Arnold can be brought forward six months. The chance, however, appears slim.