Joaquín Maroto Highlights Three Costly Mistakes by Ancelotti That Could Derail Real Madrid’s Season

Maroto’s critique, detailed in a recent column, focuses primarily on tactical decisions and squad management, areas where Ancelotti has typically excelled. However, with the margins for error razor-thin at this stage of the campaign, even minor lapses can have major consequences. According to Maroto, the first and perhaps most glaring misstep lies in Ancelotti’s persistent tinkering with player positions, which has disrupted the team’s rhythm.

The Italian manager’s experiment of deploying Eduardo Camavinga as a left-back, while initially praised for its boldness, has now drawn considerable scrutiny. Maroto argues that playing the talented Frenchman out of position limits his effectiveness and exposes defensive frailties, particularly against quick, counter-attacking opponents. “Camavinga is not a natural defender," Maroto wrote. "By placing him there, Madrid lose his dynamism in midfield and risk vulnerabilities at the back.”

Secondly, Maroto questioned Ancelotti’s handling of the penalty situation within the squad. Penalty-taking responsibilities have shifted between players throughout the season, leading to confusion and inconsistency from the spot. Maroto stressed the need for a clear hierarchy, especially in high-pressure scenarios where composure is crucial. “This lack of clarity is dangerous," he noted. "In moments of tension, a team needs certainty, not hesitation."

The third and perhaps most controversial criticism revolves around Ancelotti's squad rotation — or, more accurately, the lack thereof. With Madrid fighting on multiple fronts, fatigue has become a visible concern. Maroto believes Ancelotti’s reliance on a core group of players has led to physical and mental exhaustion, a gamble that could backfire as fixtures pile up. "There is depth in this squad," Maroto insisted. "But it’s being underutilized at the expense of overworking key players like Modric and Kroos."

Ancelotti, known for his calm demeanor, has yet to publicly respond to these criticisms. However, whispers around the Santiago Bernabéu suggest that internal conversations about rotation and tactical adjustments have indeed intensified in recent weeks. With pivotal fixtures looming, including the Champions League quarterfinals and El Clásico, the stakes could not be higher.

Despite the pointed critique, Maroto also acknowledged Ancelotti’s remarkable achievements this season, particularly his ability to maintain Madrid’s competitive edge amidst injuries and intense fixture congestion. Yet, he warned that resting on past laurels could prove fatal in the ruthless landscape of top-level football. "Ancelotti is a master tactician," Maroto conceded, "but even masters can make mistakes. Recognizing them early is the key to survival."

The response from Madrid fans has been mixed. Some echo Maroto’s concerns, expressing frustration over tactical rigidity and the visible weariness of star players. Others, however, trust Ancelotti’s experience and believe he will navigate these challenges as he has done countless times before in his illustrious career.

For Real Madrid, the path ahead is clear but treacherous. Every decision, every substitution, every tactical nuance could be the difference between lifting silverware or ending the season in disappointment. Ancelotti, with all his wisdom and experience, now faces the ultimate test of adaptability.

As Maroto’s analysis continues to stir conversations in Spain, one thing is certain: the world will be watching to see how Ancelotti responds. In football, as in life, criticism can either fracture resolve or forge greatness. Time will tell which path Real Madrid and their veteran manager will take.