Real Madrid’s Champions League Struggles: A Crisis or a Temporary Setback?

Real Madrid, synonymous with Champions League glory, is now facing an unfamiliar and precarious position. After three losses in five group-stage games, the reigning champions sit 24th in the new-format table, on the verge of a play-off battle rather than a secure spot in the last 16. With injuries, underperforming stars, and mounting pressure, questions loom about whether they can salvage their European campaign.

Mbappé’s Struggles: A Superstar Under Scrutiny

Kylian Mbappé’s arrival at Real Madrid brought sky-high expectations, but the French forward has yet to find his footing. His missed penalty against Liverpool exemplified a disappointing performance in a game where Madrid needed his brilliance. Critics, including former Real player Steve McManaman, have been quick to highlight his lack of impact, compounded by doubts over his compatibility with Vinícius Jr. when both are fit.

Despite the criticism, teammates like Jude Bellingham remain supportive. “The penalty is not why we lost,” Bellingham emphasized, adding that Mbappé will undoubtedly deliver iconic moments in the future.

Ancelotti’s Growing Problems

Carlo Ancelotti, a seasoned and decorated manager, finds himself under intense pressure. Despite his success last season, injuries to key players such as Eduardo Camavinga, Vinícius Jr., and David Alaba have hampered Real’s fluidity and effectiveness. This, combined with inconsistent performances from stars like Bellingham, has led to growing doubts about Ancelotti’s ability to turn things around.

The Italian’s recent comments about substitutions hint at frustrations with internal scrutiny from the club’s hierarchy. Spanish football expert Guillem Balague noted that these remarks likely reflect Ancelotti’s awareness of doubts within the club, adding to the pressure on him to deliver immediate results.

A Unique Format and a Slim Margin for Error

The revamped Champions League format gives Real some breathing room, but their situation remains dire. Historically, they’ve been impervious to early exits, but sitting 24th in the standings places them closer to elimination than ever before. Former players and pundits, including Rio Ferdinand, have expressed concerns over the team’s lack of cohesion and the alarming dip in their traditionally dominant form.

Can Madrid Turn It Around?

Real Madrid’s resilience in the Champions League is legendary. As Ancelotti asserted, “We will qualify to the next round and compete as every year.” While their current form raises alarm bells, their history suggests they cannot be written off. Superstars like Mbappé and Bellingham have the talent to reverse the slide, and the team’s experience in high-stakes scenarios could prove decisive.

However, immediate improvement is non-negotiable. A failure to deliver could lead to a historic elimination and cast serious doubts over Real Madrid’s ability to maintain their dominance in European football.