A lot has been said about Real Madrid squad not having enough balance, especially since the signing of Kylian Mbappe.

Speaking ahead of playing Espanyol, Carlo Ancelotti has addressed concerns about his front three’s lack of defensive effort.

For Ancelotti, the front three isn’t the problem, and they aren’t expected to play like defenders.

“The team aims to remain compact,” said Ancelotti.

“If Vinicius, Mbappe and Rodrygo try to press up top, and the midfield and defence don’t go up, it’s not Vinicius, Mbappe and Rodrygo’s problem.

“The opposite is also the case. If there is a low block, they have to get closer to the midfielders.

“I understand your thoughts that the lack of balance comes because Vinicius, Rodrygo and Mbappe don’t work hard, but that’s not the case.

“If defensive work by the three of them is what’s important, I wouldn’t play them. I’d put in three defenders.

“Balance is achieved in the work with and without the ball, and that’s where we have to look for it.”