Real Madrid's squad list for Friday's La Liga clash against Real Sociedad has raised eyebrows with the absence of two key players. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti, in his pre-match press conference, expressed his team's anticipation for the upcoming fixture at Anoeta. Ancelotti acknowledged the significance of the match, stating that they are seven points away from securing the league title and expecting a challenging game against La Real.
Notably, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo were missing from the training session with the rest of the team on Thursday. Ancelotti clarified that both players would be available for the trip, while Ferland Mendy would not be included to prioritize his fitness for the Champions League.
However, when the squad list was released, neither Bellingham nor Mendy's names were listed. Speculation arose regarding the discrepancy between Ancelotti's statements and the final squad selection. It is possible that Bellingham could still travel with the team for support, similar to Aurelien Tchouameni's presence in a previous match despite being suspended.
Given Madrid's comfortable lead in the league standings following Bellingham's decisive goal in the recent El Clasico, Ancelotti may opt to rest key players. Bellingham's recent bout of gastroenteritis, coupled with signs of fatigue in previous matches, suggests that a break could benefit his recovery.
As for Mendy, his absence in the El Clasico saw Eduardo Camavinga stepping in, but Ancelotti may reinstate him as the first-choice left-back against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
The final squad selection for the Real Madrid vs. Real Sociedad clash hints at strategic decisions by Ancelotti to manage player fitness and prioritize upcoming crucial fixtures in the Champions League campaign.
