Having won the Champions League and La Liga, Real Madrid is on top of the world. Also, to an already stellar squad, they added Kylian Mbappe, who needs no introduction. As such, Carlo Ancelotti’s side looks favorites for next year’s Champions League as well. But a former UCL winner reckons that Manchester City, who were eliminated by Madrid in the Champions League is the better side. What could be his rationale? Let’s find out below.

On the ESPN FC show, Steve Nicol was asked about the superior side between Manchester City and Real Madrid. The pundit answered, “Manchester City. On paper Real Madrid are like scary but unfortunately, the game’s not played on paper you’ve got to actually put it all together.” Nicol added that everybody knows how Guardiola’s side plays but the jury is out on how Kylian Mbappe will change Los Blancos.

Fellow pundit Luis Garcia shared the opinion. The Spaniard added that he sometimes feels nothing watching the Spanish giants. In contrast, Garcia admitted to enjoying the passing and attacking soccer played by the English champions. Also, the former Barcelona player noted that having the best players doesn’t make the best team. He gave the example of the PSG team with Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe, failing in Europe.

The pundits do have a point that Real Madrid with Kylian Mbappe is still an unknown commodity. It is not yet known, how Carlo Ancelotti will adapt his formation and tactics. But one thing is certain. Mbappe’s exit will limit the opportunities for other players.

2 Real Madrid players’ future uncertain with the arrival of Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe is a sure-shot starter at Real Madrid. Benching a player of that stature and quality is not a viable option for Carlo Ancelotti. Hence, the first victim of the Frenchman’s arrival could be Rodrygo. The Brazilian while an important player, is not indispensable like Vinicius Jr. If Ancelotti decides to line up in a 4-4-2, then Vinicius and Mbappe will be the two attackers. Alternatively, he could play in a 4-3-3 incorporating all three players. But, the reality is that Rodrygo won’t be the key man in attack next season.

Moreover, another player who could find his minutes limited is Brahim Diaz. The Spaniard occasionally used to line up on the wing for Ancelotti last season. Pundit Alejandro Moreno explained, “If indeed Rodrygo is sacrificed, then he goes to the bench which then means that that pushes Brahim Diaz further back.” Thus the signing of Kylian Mbappe means that competition will be fierce at Real Madrid next season. Who do you think should be Ancelotti’s preferred attacking trio? Let us know below.