The harsh defeat of Real Madrid in El Clásico against Barcelona has highlighted the situation of the team's quartet under coach Carlo Ancelotti, who no longer relies on Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard, Luka Jovic, and Mariano Diaz. According to a report by the Spanish newspaper "Marca," the Italian coach has several reasons for not relying on these players in recent matches. The report reveals that Ancelotti started from scratch with all the players currently part of Real Madrid’s lineup, without looking back or acting with bias, and he tried to give everyone the same opportunities and act fairly.
The report adds that regarding Welshman Gareth Bale, he was more communicative and vibrant upon the Italian coach's arrival, hoping to conclude his time at Real Madrid well at the end of the season as his contract expires. Bale resorted to the gym and began preparing, but the enthusiasm was short-lived, and he quickly disappeared from the team list after three consecutive matches at the start of the league due to injury. Since last August, he has played only two matches, with an average of 66 minutes against Villarreal and three against Paris Saint-Germain.
"Marca" continued: As for Belgian Hazard, they say in Valdebebas that he is a nice person, his teammates love him, and so do the club staff; he is friendly, smiling, and supportive, and does not create problems for Ancelotti. However, his physical condition does not convince the Italian coach, which is why he does not play. Ancelotti believes Hazard has lost his importance and has been unable to find a place alongside Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Asensio. The former Chelsea star feels pain and doesn’t understand his situation in the team and his lack of opportunities, feeling unfairly treated by Ancelotti since the beginning of the season.
Regarding striker Jovic, the newspaper explained that initially, Zidane was the one who grew tired of Jovic before Ancelotti became disappointed with the striker’s attitude. His teammates believe that his performance in daily training is far from ideal, with locker room reports stating they do not notice when he arrives or leaves, as if he is a "ghost." Due to the cold attitude of the Serbian striker, Ancelotti decided not to give him enough opportunities due to his laziness in training and lack of fight for his chance.
The "Marca" report noted that the third striker at Real Madrid, Mariano, is causing frustration for the club, as he refuses to leave despite being repeatedly told he will not play due to his poor performance and injuries, yet he clings to his contract.
