Real Madrid took a beating at home to Barcelona in the first Clasico of the season. Totally disappointed by the result, Casa Blanca president Florentino Perez is considering taking a radical decision, according to the Spanish press on Sunday.
Real Madrid suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium last night. The Clasico, eagerly awaited by fans on both sides, turned into a nightmare for Los Merengues, who were unable to withstand the Blaugrana’s fiery attack. In front of an incredulous home crowd, Robert Lewandowski shone with a brace. Catalan darling Lamine Yamal and Raphinha also took part in the attacking festival with masterpieces of their own.
For Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, this humiliating home defeat was the last straw. The club’s usually calm and calculating boss this time broke his silence to express deep disappointment. He has also indicated that measures are imminent to get the team back on track, although he was not a fan of the idea of recruiting new players in January during the winter mercato. With the terrible injury to Dani Carvajal and the difficulties encountered by David Alaba since his injury, Carlo Ancelotti is suffering defensively. There are whispers in Madrid that the President made a serious mistake in letting the likes of Nacho go.
Florentino Pérez angry, tough decisions on the way
Shortly after the final whistle, Florentino Pérez went to the dressing room to express his displeasure directly to the players and coaching staff. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the president of the White House did not mince his words and indicated his intention to act on several fronts to turn Real Madrid around. It is a rare gesture for a man who usually prefers to keep his distance in difficult times.
Florentino Pérez, well aware of the importance of honour in a Clasico, is said to have asked his players to turn the page quickly to avoid this defeat having an impact on the team’s future performances. According to inside sources, the chairman even hinted that he would give the go-ahead to strengthen the team during the forthcoming winter mercato. His message is clear: patience has its limits, and it is imperative that Real Madrid regain some positive momentum.
Having lost Yeny Yoro this summer, Real Madrid are now targeting Spanish international Laporte. But the matter appears complex, as Al Nassr would not like to lose their key player. What is more, the club from the Spanish capital know that it will be almost impossible to get their hands on a top player during the winter mercato.
Florentino Perez talks to Kylian Mbappé, target of criticism
In the wake of that crushing defeat, Kylian Mbappé found himself under fire. Having arrived with high expectations and seen as a potential saviour for Madrid’s attack, the No9 failed to make an impact. The Bondy native was even mocked on social networks for his numerous offside positions. Many fans and analysts are wondering whether the French star will be able to adapt to Real Madrid’s style of play, where tactical rigour is crucial.
Aware of the growing pressure on his star striker, Florentino Pérez made a point of meeting Mbappé after the defeat to offer him some advice. According to Marca, one of the things he reminded him of was the importance of staying focused and not allowing himself to be destabilised by criticism, in order to maintain his self-confidence. ‘The Clasico is a special match‘, he is quoted as saying to Kylian Mbappé, ’but the season is long, and every opportunity to progress must be seized’.
Real Madrid will also have to overcome the gap opened up in the standings by Barcelona, who now lead the way on 30 points. With 24 points from eleven games, Los Merengues find themselves under pressure, especially as their pursuers are closing in. Carlo Ancelotti will have his work cut out, as he must not only restore his team’s morale, but also review his strategies to avoid another disappointment.
Leave a Reply