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Real Madrid's October performances were a microcosm of the team's season so far: flashes of brilliance followed by frustrating inconsistency. While an epic Champions League comeback against Dortmund showcased their undeniable potential and resilience, unconvincing league form and a humbling Clasico defeat against Barcelona exposed significant weaknesses that cannot be ignored. 
 
Ancelotti's persistent tactical tinkering has prevented the team from establishing a clear identity. Despite having a squad overflowing with individual talent, a cohesive and consistent playing style is nowhere to be found. Is this Real Madrid side built to dominate possession, press relentlessly high up the pitch, or counter-attack with devastating speed? The constant shifts in formation and line-ups suggest a manager who is still searching for the optimal formula, and this lack of clarity is hindering the team's ability to perform consistently at the highest level. 
 
This tactical uncertainty is further complicated by a lack of balance in midfield. Tchouaméni has struggled to provide the defensive solidity required in front of the back four, leaving the defence exposed and disrupting the team's rhythm. Furthermore, while Bellingham possesses undeniable talent, his best role within the system remains unclear. His performances have fluctuated, raising questions about whether Ancelotti is utilising him effectively and maximising his potential. 
 
Concerns about defensive fragility continue to linger. The backline has looked susceptible to pace and intricate passing sequences, particularly against top-tier opposition. This vulnerability is compounded by the unfortunate injury to Carvajal, which has forced Lucas Vázquez into a more prominent role at right-back. While Vázquez is a versatile and capable player, asking him to consistently perform defensive duties throughout a long and demanding season is a risky proposition. His natural attacking instincts and lack of experience as a full-back could leave the team exposed. 
 
Furthermore, the lack of depth at centre-back is a worrying issue. With only Militão and Rüdiger as reliable options, the risk of fatigue and potential injury looms large, especially given the gruelling schedule this season. The failure to secure a quality backup in the transfer window could prove to be a costly oversight. 
 
An over-reliance on individual brilliance is another area of concern. While moments of magic from the likes of Vinicius Junior have salvaged crucial points, depending solely on individual brilliance is not a sustainable strategy for long-term success. The team must find a way to generate a more consistent attacking threat through coordinated movement, intricate passing combinations, and a clearly defined tactical structure. 
 
Looking ahead, Ancelotti faces a critical juncture. He must establish a clear tactical identity, address the midfield imbalance, and find solutions to the defensive concerns heightened by Carvajal's absence and the lack of centre-back depth. He needs to mould this collection of talented individuals into a cohesive unit that can perform consistently at the highest level. Failure to do so could derail their ambitions for silverware this season. The coming weeks will be a crucial test of his managerial experience and the team's ability to evolve and adapt. 

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Read about the individual matches in more detail, with play-by-play accounts and tactical analysis here: