Lucas Vázquez: His Powerful Return to Real Madrid

Football is known for its fast-paced events, especially in the world of major clubs like Real Madrid. While stadiums are packed with passionate fans, the royal team faces new challenges every week, from player injuries to tactical changes. Although the spotlight is often on big stars like Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard, and Fede Valverde, there are other players capable of making a significant impact on the game. One of these players is Lucas Vázquez, who returns to the starting lineup for Real Madrid after a long absence due to injury. In this article, we examine Lucas Vázquez’s return and the major changes expected in the upcoming matches, both in terms of lineup and tactical adjustments.

Return After Injury: Lucas Vázquez

Lucas Vázquez’s injury to his left hamstring in February 2025 was a tough blow for him and the team. After suffering a direct injury in the derby against Barcelona on February 8, he was unable to participate in the crucial match against Manchester City in the Champions League. This absence was significant, especially since Lucas Vázquez is one of the key players in Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup due to his versatility in playing different positions, whether as an attacking winger or as a right-back.

However, after a period of treatment and careful medical monitoring, Lucas Vázquez’s has started to return gradually to his physical form, making him ready to rejoin the team. He is expected to play a key role in the coming period as the pressure increases in the matches, where he will need to provide support both defensively and offensively.

The Importance of Lucas Vázquez Return

Vázquez’s anticipated return is beneficial not only from a physical standpoint but also tactically. Ancelotti relies on Vázquez in various situations because he provides balance between attack and defense. In matches such as those against Girona or Real Sociedad, Lucas Vázquez is a crucial player in defensive transitions and quick counterattacks. His ability to deliver assists and contribute to offensive plays makes him a strong asset in important matches.

Tactical Changes in Real Madrid

Despite Lucas Vázquez’s return, Real Madrid will see other tactical changes in the lineup, reflecting the many challenges the team faces. For example, following Fede Valverde’s thigh muscle injury, he is likely to be rested in the upcoming matches to avoid aggravating the injury and to ensure his readiness for major encounters such as those against Barcelona or Atlético Madrid. Vázquez’s return will be vital in reinforcing the team’s defensive side in case Valverde is not physically ready.

It is expected that some players, such as Ceballos, who performed brilliantly in the Manchester City match, may also be given some rest in preparation for upcoming league games. The Copa del Rey match against Real Sociedad will be a significant challenge, as the team seeks to reach the final. Ancelotti will need to adjust the lineup to strike a balance between resting key players and securing victories in crucial matches.

• Preparations for the Girona Match and Upcoming Challenges : The Real Madrid vs Girona match is one of the games that is generating rising fan expectations. After their European success, the team needs to quickly return to competition mode in La Liga. Ancelotti is expected to rotate the lineup, giving some players rest while providing opportunities for others to appear in the starting XI. For example, players like Rodrygo and Brahim could replace suspended or injured players like Bellingham.

Furthermore, Ancelotti must make critical decisions regarding the midfield, with two options available for facing Girona: either Tchouaméni or Camavinga. Tchouaméni’s excellent performance in the Manchester City match may increase his chances of starting alongside Modrić in midfield.

• The Importance of Balance in the Lineup : While Ancelotti searches for a balance between defense and attack, the biggest challenge lies in how to restore the team’s defensive solidity. Despite the potent attack that Real Madrid possesses, defensive efficiency will determine the team’s fate in upcoming matches. With players like Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez on the flanks, the Italian coach will need to implement strategies that prevent leaks in the team’s defense.

Ancelotti may also rely on players such as Camavinga and Tchouaméni to control the tempo of the game in midfield, which will help increase the team’s ball possession and effectiveness in counter-attacks.

Conclusion: Real Madrid’s Challenges in the Upcoming Weeks

As always, Real Madrid is a club that faces constant pressure to win trophies in all competitions it participates in. With player injuries and the need for rotation in the lineup, Ancelotti will find himself in a situation where he needs to make crucial decisions about the team and the way they play. With Lucas Vázquez’s return, the Italian coach will need to develop strategies that maintain balance in the team across different aspects.

Ultimately, the next few weeks will be pivotal for Real Madrid in various competitions, with the royal team relying on the abilities of all its players to overcome challenges and achieve their major goals. With talented players like Lucas Vázquez’s, Tchouaméni, and Valverde, Real Madrid has the necessary tools for continued success in their campaign this season.