Ancelotti is still trying to find a place for Mbappé at Real Madrid

The Mbappé era is underway, potentially a force of nature with its sights set on the Santiago Bernabéu. More than 80,000 fans witnessed his unveiling, and the excitement has increased during his first training sessions. But the real peak will come when the Frenchman steps onto the pitch.

Kylian joins a champion Real Madrid side—winners of the Spanish Super Cup, LaLiga, and the Champions League—with all the pieces in place to create a winning formula that Ancelotti is already contemplating. Although the 4-3-3 formation will regain prominence in the 2024-25 season, alternative setups have been in the works since last year.

Playing Mbappé as a forward

Benzema’s departure was the catalyst for change. Bellingham emerged as a key player early on, and the season concluded with a 4-4-2 formation where the Englishman defended on the left and attacked through the middle. Mbappé strengthens this strategy, avoiding clashes with Vinicius.

The result is a dynamic, mobile attacking duo. Luis Enrique helped pave the way for Ancelotti, emphasizing Mbappé's role as a forward rather than a winger. The numbers speak for themselves: of Kylian’s 44 goals and 10 assists in his last season with PSG, 27 goals and six assists came in the 27 matches where he played up front. The facts leave no room for debate, it seems.

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Bellingham back in a 4-4-2

These tactical shifts may, on paper, seem to disadvantage Rodrygo. The key names are Valverde, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham, Mbappé, and Vinicius: their positioning on the field is crucial. Ancelotti, recognising their offensive potential, designed a diamond formation with Bellingham as the focal point. The Englishman had a stellar start to the season, averaging almost a goal per game.

Jude orchestrated the play, supported by Valverde and Camavinga in midfield, with Tchouaméni anchoring the defence. This solid foundation would, in theory, allow Vinicius and Mbappé to thrive as a lethal attacking duo. The challenge, however, lies in the defensive workload that this pairing would have to shoulder.

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Ancelotti’s typical 4-3-3

Enter the formation that ended last season as the go-to strategy: a 4-4-2 setup that gained traction as the season progressed. This formation, with Kroos and Valverde in a double pivot, delivered the best results for Ancelotti. While the Camavinga-Tchouaméni pairing still needs to prove its reliability, the club is confident that they are the future of the midfield.

Ancelotti is likely to start with them, which would see Valverde move to the right wing and Jude to the left. This would free up Vinicius and Mbappé, reducing their defensive responsibilities. Bellingham wouldn’t be overly restricted either, as he can still cut inside from the wing, using his physical presence to cover for Vini.

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Good players mean good results

In the end, it’s all about rock and roll—a high-octane approach that seems destined to succeed this season. Speed, strength, and an eye for goal are the cornerstones of the prototype formation until Bellingham arrived. The 4-3-3 formation, reminiscent of the BBC trio, is making a comeback. While the acronym doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily as Benzema, Bale, and Cristiano, the combination of Rodrygo, Mbappé, and Vinicius offers a lethal mix of attacking flair, dribbling, and positional fluidity.

This setup might distance Bellingham from the goal and leave Camavinga or Tchouaméni on the bench. However, Valverde’s work rate and dynamism make him indispensable to Ancelotti’s plans. Although this is the most adventurous option, Bellingham’s defensive contributions, which earned him his move to Madrid, are beyond question.

These three tactical options offer a wealth of depth. Brahim can slot into any role, be it as a forward, an attacking midfielder, or on either wing. Rodrygo would be a constant starter, pushing to regain his place if he finds himself out of favor with any formation. Güler’s impressive Euros has only bolstered his standing with the Madrid hierarchy and coaching staff.

Endrick arrives as Brazil’s top prospect, carrying experience beyond his 18 years, while Ceballos, provided he stays injury-free, has Ancelotti’s trust. All of this with a rejuvenated Modric and the potential rotation of Camavinga and Tchouaméni depending on the chosen formation. With so many starters, but only six spots available, Ancelotti has a blessed problem on his hands.