Real Madrid’s Champions League dreams were crushed in dramatic fashion on Wednesday night, and in the aftermath, one of their senior stars hasn’t held back.
Thibaut Courtois Questions Carlo Ancelotti’s Tactics After Humbling Arsenal Defeat
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, a mainstay in Real Madrid’s recent European successes, publicly questioned manager Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical approach following Los Blancos’ heavy 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Coming into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu with a mountain to climb after a 3-0 first-leg drubbing, Madrid fans were hoping for another magical European night.
Instead, they witnessed a performance lacking bite, direction, and above all—belief.
Speaking to the media post-match, Courtois didn’t mince words.
“Instead of putting in a lot of crosses, maybe we needed to play some team football,” said the Belgian shot-stopper.
“We put in a lot of crosses, but there’s no Joselu.”
The message was clear. Without a true target man like Joselu in the box, Madrid’s relentless crossing seemed more hopeful than strategic.
Courtois also highlighted a deeper concern—lack of unity and self-awareness among the players.
“We need to start playing as a team, not as individuals. We need to start being honest with ourselves,” he added.
The comments have sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits alike. While some believe Courtois is right to call out the issues at hand, others argue that such criticism should stay behind closed doors.
Carlo Ancelotti, known for his calm demeanor and man-management skills, now faces mounting pressure.
With Madrid’s European campaign over and La Liga still hanging in the balance, questions loom over whether he can rally his squad and restore confidence.
For now, the echoes of Courtois’ words will linger. A team that once ruled Europe with tactical brilliance and unwavering unity must now look inward—and ask if they’ve lost more than just a tie to Arsenal.
