The Italian enjoyed a dream start to life at new club and managed to bag two titles in only his first season at the club. A Copa Del Rey trophy at the expense of Barcelona was supplemented by a much awaited La Decima as the Castilians got the better of rivals Atletico Madrid to clinch the European title for the tenth time.
The start to the new season was a bit shaky for Real Madrid, but Ancelotti's men soon hit the ground running and went on a devastating winning run. Following their defeat at the hands of Atletico Madrid, Los Blancos went on a 22 game win streak and the following stats show just how remarkable the achievement was:
- Real Madrid's 22 match win streak was a Spanish record as Ancelotti's men bettered the record set by Frank Rijkaard’s Barcelona, who won 18 straight games in the 2005-06 season.
- Real Madrid finished the Champions League group stages with maximum points, only five teams have previously managed to win all their matches in the initial stage of the competition.
- Los Merengues came close to equalling the World record set by Brazilian club Coritiba FC who recorded 24 straight victories back in 2011.
However their perfect run was brought to an end during their first competitive match of 2015 as the European champions suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Valencia. Since the turn of the year, Madrid have lost 5 of their 16 matches in all competitions, a run which has seen them losing their top spot in the league and one which almost got them kicked out of Europe's elite competition.
A few factors have played part in the downward spiral the club has faced which includes injuries to key players. However it is important that Madrid and Ancelotti respond boldly to this set back. Here are five changes the Italian must make if his team is to achieve anything in the all important match.
Play a defensive midfielder
Real Madrid have been missing the presence of a proper defensive midfielder and this is an issue Ancelotti should be looking to pay heed to. He has played Sergio Ramos in the role in the past, a decision which was not fruitful. Despite having a front three which is regarded as the best in the world, Barcelona rely on their midfielders to keep the game flowing. Ancelotti must thus ensure he has a plan devised to nullify Barca's excellent midfield.
Give Bale the freedom he deserves
The Welshman has faced the wrath of the Real Madrid faithful for quite some time now and will need support from his coach to give him the confidence which he deserves..jpg?q=75&w=634)
Bale's performances in recent years have shown that he is a big talent, however the former Tottenham man has failed to show that in recent games. Bale has seemingly been intimidated by the fans and the players around him and Carlo Ancelotti must give the player the freedom to express himself more freely.
Play Kaylor Navas
Iker Casillas was reinstated to the starting line-up following Carlo Ancelotti's arrival to the club, but it is about time that the Italian made the brave decision of dropping "the saint" to the bench for good. The Madrilenian has conceded 22 goals in 24 league appearances and is clearly not good enough to start for Real Madrid. In Kaylor Navas, Real Madrid have an excellent goalkeeper who must be give his chance.
Have a defensive strategy
Bearing in mind the wealth of talent Barcelona have at the front, it is important that Carlo Ancelotti does have a defensive plan in mind. Real Madrid's attacking players namely Ronaldo and Bale are never eager to track back, however it is important that the world's most expensive players put forth an all-round display to ensure their team achieves a desirable result.
Devise a plan for Lionel Messi
The mercurial striker has been phenomenal recently and it is important that Madrid have a plan to keep him at bay. The Argentinean started the season poorly compared to his lofty standards but is now back to his supreme best and it is important that the little magician is given no room to breathe on Sunday.
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