Real Madrid: Caution Prevails After Impressive Victory in Bilbao

Following a resounding 3-0 victory at San Mamés, the mood around Real Madrid is cautiously optimistic. Despite the impressive performance, voices advocating for restraint have emerged, notably from Álvaro Benito, a respected figure in Madridismo and analyst for Spanish sports shows. The former player emphasized the need for moderation, stating, “It’s just one match; let’s see what happens next.”

Benito expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of Xabi Alonso‘s tactical vision, which aims to redefine Madrid’s identity. While the strategy displayed in Bilbao was captivating, he cautioned that it does not guarantee sustained success. During his appearance on El Larguero, Benito pointed out that Real Madrid must not settle for isolated brilliant performances. He drew parallels with Luis Enrique’s Paris Saint-Germain, a team lacking a traditional defensive midfielder but thriving through collective engagement and intensity. This level of commitment is what Benito believes the club should strive for: to dominate matches and impose their style rather than relying on individual brilliance or an unstable tactical framework.

The Tactical Paradox of Real Madrid

Benito highlighted a clear paradox in the current situation at Real Madrid. The club sought to distance itself from Carlo Ancelotti‘s approach, which focused on a low block and counter-attacks enriched by a sprinkle of fortune during critical moments. However, after a challenging start to the season, Alonso appears to have reverted to a more pragmatic structure. “We wanted to change our identity, but since that hasn’t worked out, we are returning to what we supposedly moved away from,” he summarized, revealing deep-seated doubts about the project’s sustainability.

Questions Loom Over Champions League Aspirations

While Benito does not question the talent within the squad or its potential, he raises an essential inquiry: can this hybrid tactical approach enable Real Madrid to overcome formidable opponents like Chelsea or PSG in the Champions League? Alonso aspires for greater control through a more organized pressing game and enhanced possession, yet finding the right balance remains crucial. The victory at San Mamés offers a glimpse into a promising future, but it does not assure consistency over an entire season. Until that coherence is achieved, doubts will linger even after standout matches.

The road ahead for Real Madrid is fraught with challenges as they aim to solidify their tactical identity while competing at the highest levels. Can they navigate this complex landscape successfully? Only time will tell.