Madrid journey in the Champions League this season has not been as smooth as previous seasons, we know that this is due to player injuries. But now, with most of the players back available, Madrid chances of reaching the last 16 have increased again, even though they have to go through the play-off route. Personally, I also assume that Madrid can secure full points in the next two matches, these matches are very crucial and have a lot at stake. RB Salzburg and Brest cannot be underestimated, because they also have the ambition to advance to the next round. If Madrid manage to reach the round of 16, then their journey will most likely be as usual, I mean Madrid will be the favorite team in every match.
Previously many suggested Madrid should recruit new players in the January transfer window, especially in the defensive sector, I think that is indeed a move that must be done to ease Ancelotti work. Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao are still hampered by injuries, both of whom may not return to the squad until August, which means they will miss the season.
Although Real Madrid's pace is not good, I think they can improve better in the upcoming matches. Their confidence has risen and also the injured players have returned to the team so their focus is only on finding victory in the 7th and 8th matches in the first phase of the Champions League this season. I am not worried about their performance because the team is full of experience and also supported by many quality players in their team.
Also in this early phase, several big teams have not shown their best strength because they have lost stability in their game. Like Manchester City, they certainly did not perform well in the Champions League this season, they are ranked 22nd in the standings, besides the team that is struggling hard is of course PSG because they are in a worse position in the standings.