Ancelotti Handles His Star Vinicius Junior with Caution

Spanish newspaper Marca highlighted the careful and calculated approach of Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, who manages the Brazilian national team, toward his former Real Madrid players during the recent international break.

The experienced coach exercised prudence and strategic management with the Brazilian trio—Militao, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo—to prevent fatigue and ensure their peak physical and technical readiness ahead of crucial matches, culminating with the highly anticipated Clasico.

Militao: Planned Rest by Subtle Request Ancelotti showed special care for defender Éder Militão by giving him rest during the friendly against Japan, after he played the full match against South Korea. This decision was well-received by Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, who relies on Militão for upcoming tough fixtures against Getafe, Juventus, and Barcelona. The move is seen as a "gesture of appreciation" toward his former club, ensuring Militão returns without physical setbacks, amid the injury challenges faced by top clubs during international breaks.

Rodrygo: Boosting Morale and Confidence Young forward Rodrygo benefited significantly on a mental level from the break. After reclaiming his spot in the Samba squad, he scored twice in the first match and played over half an hour against Japan. He will return to Valdebebas with renewed confidence and enthusiasm, marking a fresh start in his Real Madrid journey. Ancelotti praised the player as "important with exceptional technical abilities."

Vinicius Junior: Careful Management of Effort Ancelotti exercised extreme caution with his star, Vinicius Junior, with whom he shares a special understanding from their time together at Madrid. The coach started him in both matches against South Korea and Japan but substituted him each time to prevent physical exhaustion. The strategy paid off, as Vinicius scored a goal and assisted another against South Korea. The player expressed deep gratitude, saying: "Ancelotti is the best coach I’ve worked with; he gave me the confidence that changed my career."

The strong bond between Ancelotti and his former Madrid stars remains intact, reflecting the Italian coach’s professionalism and foresight in managing his players ahead of major football battles.