The Barcelona-Real Madrid match in the 35th round of the Spanish League was a historic moment in every sense of the word. Carlo Ancelotti’s team faced a real test against an opponent that was gradually shifting its focus to the final three matches of the season, following a week in which the Champions League semi-finals dominated the sporting scene.
After 90 minutes of football excitement, Real Madrid’s board, led by Florentino Pérez, made crucial decisions regarding the futures of several players expected to leave in July. Ancelotti had stated before the match: “El Clásico is always special because of the intense rivalry, and it’s the last one of the season, as Barcelona will not participate in the Club World Cup. We are well-prepared and know what awaits us. The match is difficult, but our recent results give us confidence.”
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It’s no secret that these matches could mark Ancelotti’s last as Real Madrid’s coach. Expectations indicate his departure at the end of May, as the club’s management shifts its focus to the Club World Cup in the United States, given its sporting and economic importance.
The El Clásico clearly highlighted the team’s need to strengthen its right-back position after Lucas Vázquez made a series of fatal errors during the match. His performance against Barcelona epitomized his disappointing season, prompting Pérez’s administration to seriously consider parting ways with him, especially with the Club World Cup approaching.
It’s worth noting that Vázquez’s contract expires on June 30, 2025, and since the beginning of January, he has been free to negotiate with any other club. Therefore, the blame for the team’s poor results lies not only with Ancelotti but also with some players, including Vázquez, who may have played their last El Clásico for Real Madrid in the heart of Catalonia.
