Ancelotti has managed to adjust the strategy for his team after he lost his best center forward. Bellingham's arrival has required Ancelotti to use a different formation compared to last season, where so far they have used a formation often called a false nine with 4-3-1-2. Real Madrid play well with that formation and they have won many matches, even Bellingham, who plays as an attacking midfielder, contributes like a center forward.
I mostly also notice Jude Bellingham attacking from the left side of the attack and push forward. He also does not exactly play as a false nine but have a knack to always pop up in dangerous situations to find a way to get a goal. That is the same knack that Gundogan had at City when he always popped up to score very important goals for the club, while not particularly playing an attacking role.
I doubt Pep would give much thought about bringing in Toni Kroos to the club. He’s no doubt a superb player with a lot of experience under his belt. But like you noted, he may be thinking about retirement having had a successful career.
I do not see City pushing this transfer but if they do it will be a dream deal for both Kroos and Real Madrid.
- Jay -