Arbeloa Consults Ancelotti’s Solution

Álvaro Arbeloa chose a straightforward approach while facing Rayo Vallecano. After a setback in Lisbon, he reverted to a lineup with proven success against Monaco. Arbeloa aimed to regain confidence and establish normalcy without radical changes.

Camavinga’s Role as Left Back

The primary focus was the left-back position. Despite having three natural left-backs available, with Ferland Mendy being the only absentee, Arbeloa opted for Eduardo Camavinga. Although not a traditional left-back, Camavinga met Arbeloa’s requirements for clean ball movement, the ability to cut inside, and sound decision-making.

This tactical choice echoes Carlo Ancelotti’s previous strategies. Under pressure, using Camavinga as a left-back has proven effective, benching Carreras, Fran García, and David Alaba in the process.

Adapting the Defensive Strategy

“In our style of play, even with limited training time, full-backs often move inward but can also spread wide. We aim for positional interchange,” explained Arbeloa regarding Camavinga’s unconventional role. The Frenchman’s physical attributes and exceptional skills make him suited for this adaptation.

Camavinga’s Impressive Statistics

During his time under Ancelotti, Camavinga had notable performances, even filling the left-back role in 28 matches. He showcased his abilities in significant games, participating in three Clásicos, the 2023 Champions League semi-finals, and a derby against Atlético Madrid.

Cumulatively, Camavinga excelled in both defense and offense, offering a seamless transition from back to front. His performance demonstrated a blend of caution and boldness, allowing him to function almost as a midfielder while occupying the left-back position.