As Real Madrid gears up for the UEFA Super Cup final against Serie A’s Atalanta next Wednesday in Warsaw, the match holds more weight than just another title for the Spanish giants.
It’s a crucial opportunity to kick off the 2024/25 season with a victory and set the stage for an unprecedented septuple.
Beyond the potential silverware, the fixture offers Real Madrid’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, a chance to equal the legendary Miguel Muñoz’s record of 14 titles with the club.
As reported by Diario AS, Ancelotti’s strategy appears to focus on continuity rather than experimentation, suggesting that high-profile signings like Endrick and Kylian Mbappe might not start.
“You have to take into account those players who won the Champions League,” Ancelotti emphasized, reflecting on his approach from previous Super Cup victories, such as the 2-0 wins over Sevilla in 2014 and Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022.
The Italian tactician is set to rely on the core of last season’s Champions League-winning squad, despite being without key players Toni Kroos and Nacho, both instrumental in their European triumph.
Nacho’s absence will likely see Eder Militao step in, while Luka Modric, who has impressed during the pre-season US tour, is expected to fill Kroos’ role.
One of the key decisions Ancelotti faces is the selection of the midfield, with Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouaméni competing for a starting spot.
Tchouaméni’s recent injury could pave the way for Camavinga, who made a strong impression during the London leg of their tour.
Given the limited pre-season training time for several players, including Dani Carvajal, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde, Ancelotti is expected to make several substitutions in the second half to maintain the squad’s stability and fitness.
As the countdown to the Super Cup final continues, Real Madrid is not just aiming for a win but also setting the tone for what could be a historic season under Ancelotti’s leadership.
