Real Madrid’s thrilling 4-4 draw with Villarreal at La Ceramica featured a lineup primarily composed of backup players, chosen by manager Carlo Ancelotti. This entertaining match displayed the attacking prowess of Real Madrid’s ‘B unit,’ though it left a bitter aftertaste for some within the squad.
Despite the offensive fireworks, Ancelotti expressed no concern over conceding four goals, emphasizing that it was an open game where his team played “attacking, beautiful football.” However, the defensive lapses have significant implications for certain players’ aspirations, particularly for Eder Militao, who harbored hopes of featuring in the Champions League final team at Wembley.
Militao’s performance against Villarreal was under intense scrutiny, and unfortunately for him, it was far from convincing. He struggled notably against Alexander Sorloth, which has led to a decision within the club: Nacho Fernandez will start alongside Antonio Rudiger in the crucial match against Borussia Dortmund, as reported by Relevo.
This decision has been influenced by Militao’s inability to showcase his best form, contrasting sharply with Nacho’s recent resurgence in performance.
Rudiger himself did not have an easy time against Sorloth, but Militao’s ongoing struggles were more pronounced. His lack of form was evident throughout the match, making him an unreliable option for such a high-stakes fixture. On the other hand, Nacho has demonstrated significant improvement over the past two months.
His solid performances have been consistent, earning him a spot in the starting lineup. Any lingering hopes that Andriy Lunin might have had for a surprise start in the final have similarly been dashed, reinforcing Thibaut Courtois’ position as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Nacho’s journey throughout the Champions League knockout stages has been commendable. He has faced and managed some of Europe’s most formidable strikers, including Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, with relative success.
His ability to handle such challenges boosts his confidence as he prepares to face Niclas Fullkrug for Dortmund. Nacho’s upcoming role in the final presents him with a unique opportunity: to potentially lift the Champions League trophy as captain, marking a significant milestone in his Real Madrid career.
This moment could serve as a fitting conclusion to his time with the club, allowing him to exit on a high note after years of dedicated service.
