Real Madrid faces growing challenges as they approach a critical Champions League match against Liverpool on November 27 at Anfield. After a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan on Tuesday, the Spanish club learned that midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni may be out for up to a month due to an ankle injury. This setback could complicate Madrid’s hopes of advancing smoothly in the Champions League, where they currently sit in a precarious position.
Unlike Liverpool, who are in excellent form with four wins from four games in the Champions League group stage, Madrid’s path has been more turbulent. With two wins and two losses, Madrid ranks 17th in the new league format. This position may worsen as additional games are played on Wednesday, potentially pushing them even further down the table. The pressure is mounting for Madrid, as their recent struggles highlight vulnerabilities that could threaten their Champions League campaign.
Tchouameni’s injury is a blow to Madrid’s midfield. The French international has made a name for himself as one of Europe’s top talents since joining from AS Monaco, and he has been especially valuable in Madrid’s lineup. Ironically, Tchouameni was previously a target for Liverpool before signing with Madrid, adding an interesting dynamic as the two clubs prepare to face each other. Losing him will be felt keenly by Madrid, particularly as they struggle to regain momentum in their European campaign.
Despite high-profile stars such as Kylian Mbappe—who joined on a free transfer—alongside Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid has been unable to find consistent form. Discontent among fans has grown, especially after a humiliating 4-0 home loss to Barcelona and the recent defeat to AC Milan. Manager Carlo Ancelotti, a highly decorated coach with five Champions League titles, is under increasing pressure. Criticism of his tactics has also surfaced, including from family members of players. Notably, Federico Valverde’s wife, Mina Bonino, publicly voiced her dissatisfaction after her husband was substituted at halftime in the Milan match. She argued that Valverde performs best in his natural midfield role and took issue with Ancelotti’s decision to play him as a winger.
Off-field tensions have also affected the team’s morale. Recently, Real Madrid chose to skip the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, reportedly in protest of the outcome of the award. Vinicius Junior, a favorite to win, ultimately lost to Manchester City’s Rodri, which left many within the club feeling snubbed. Madrid’s decision to boycott the ceremony has been widely interpreted as a gesture of solidarity with Vinicius, who many believe deserved the award.
As the November 27 clash with Liverpool approaches, Madrid will need to address these challenges and find a way to refocus their efforts. Ancelotti and his squad face an uphill battle as they look to navigate injuries, tactical criticisms, and internal discontent. With Liverpool in strong form and Madrid’s struggles mounting, the upcoming match at Anfield promises to be a critical test for the European champions.
