Eder was among the best defenders in the world prior to his injury. Ok, he had literally one step left. And now-more cruciate ligaments. A year of tedious recovery, then you have to learn all over again how to step on your torn leg.

Real Madrid has literally one healthy CB, and that's also a nutcase. I think Florentino is already dialing Nacho and Ramos.

It's impressive how few Ancelotti brought on from the academy. With Carlo, Real Madrid debuted the following: Raul Asensio, Juanmi Latasa, Mario Martin, both from Valladolid, Gonzalo Garcia, Nico Paz, Como, Peter Federico, Alvaro Rodriguez, both from Getafe, Mario Gila, Lazio, and Sergio Santos, Real Union.

Real Madrid's academy is the best in Europe in terms of personnel. But for a very long time, the main team didn't need the talents of La Fabrica. You should have incredible talent to get into such a Real Madrid starting lineup. And yet, it seemed like the last bright flashes were Reguilon and Miguel Gutierrez. Not much

The injuries to key defenders have left Real Madrid in a tough spot. The lack of academy players making an impact is noticeable. Will we see more young talents stepping up under Ancelotti's guidance? Time will tell.