Where will Joselu play at Real Madrid in 2023/24?

Real Madrid are anticipated to make tactical changes ahead of the 2023/24 season this summer.

Due to a quick shift in the Spanish capital, Los Blancos are missing former captain Karim Benzema and transfer record acquisition Eden Hazard.

Benzema has accepted an opportunity to join Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, while Hazard has been released on a free transfer after filling in for Benzema in recent months.

Despite their interest in Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid are expected to be cautious this summer.

Despite persistent interest from Real Madrid, Mbappe has stated his intention to remain in Paris in 2023/24.

Despite signing a contract extension last summer amid an offer to move to Madrid, France’s captain is a long-term target for Real Madrid.

However, the situation has changed in recent weeks, with Benzema departing and Mbappe announcing his refusal to sign a new contract in Paris.

Mbappe is open to new opportunities, but Real Madrid is preparing for all possibilities, including a free transfer in 2024.

That appears to be Carlo Ancelotti’s most likely decision, but a plan is required, with Joselu providing great short-term cover.

As part of Ancelotti’s overall response, Spanish international Joselu has agreed to a season-long loan return to Real Madrid.

Despite Joselu’s low profile, there is a definite plan in place, with Ancelotti willing to offer him a more active role.

The veteran forward scored 16 La Liga goals in 2022/23, but he was mostly used in a front two, with Ancelotti preferring a three-man assault.

As Ancelotti considers the broader picture, Joselu as a center attacker, although as a rotating option, is not likely to be a game changer.

Joselu is not Real Madrid’s long-term solution for Benzema, but Ancelotti will be hoping he can step up as a cover option for specific games.