A surprising development has emerged at Real Madrid as Carlo Ancelotti prepares for the upcoming match against Manchester City. 

It must be noted that the coach, forced by injuries, relied on an unconventional pair of centre-backs during the recent Madrid derby. 

Aurelien Tchouameni was deployed as a centre-back out of necessity, while Raul Asencio, a youth academy graduate rarely considered for the first team, stepped up. 

Now, this unexpected duo is tasked with the formidable challenge of facing Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who has yet to score against Real Madrid in four attempts—a surprising drought for a striker of his calibre.

Facing the monster 

Haaland’s inability to find the net against Madrid stands out as one of the few blemishes on his otherwise dominant record. 

Of the 15 teams he has faced at least twice in the Champions League, only three—Inter Milan, Manchester City (before he joined them), and Real Madrid—have managed to keep him goalless. 

However, this will be the first time he encounters a defensive pairing as unconventional as Tchouameni and Asencio. Injuries to key defenders such as Dani Carvajal, Lucas Vazquez, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and David Alaba have left Ancelotti with limited options.

Tchouameni and Asencio will shoulder the burden

Despite the odds, Tchouameni and Asencio impressed in the derby. Tchouameni, who adapted well to his new role, complemented Asencio’s speed and ability to make crucial defensive interventions. 

Asencio recorded eight recoveries, one interception, and did not commit a single foul. He also achieved an impressive 93.62% pass accuracy. Tchouameni, on his part, contributed significantly by reducing ball losses and making key progressions with the ball.

Ancelotti’s unexpected defensive strategy hinges on clear communication and effective task division. 

Asencio will likely focus on using his speed and strength to disrupt City’s attacks, while Tchouameni, with his aerial ability, will be responsible for marking Haaland and initiating Madrid’s play from the back.