Real Madrid finds itself in a challenging moment as recent performances raise questions. The team is currently on a three-match winless streak, having drawn against Elche and Rayo Vallecano, followed by a disappointing defeat to Liverpool. Despite these setbacks, Madrid maintains its position at the top of La Liga, boasting 32 points—three more than last season at this stage when they trailed Barcelona. Pedja Mijatovic, former player and sporting director, offers his insights on the current landscape.
Mijatovic acknowledges the mixed results, stating, “I’ve seen some very good matches and others that didn’t go as well.” He pointed to the match against Elche as particularly problematic, noting that several players were returning from international duty with limited preparation time. This context highlights the challenges of integrating players back into the squad quickly. Mijatovic emphasizes that this is a new cycle for the club, suggesting that perfection in the first year of a project is unrealistic. “It’s important to give Xabi Alonso time and not judge him based on one or two games,” he added.
Assessing Competitive Edge
Despite recent struggles, Mijatovic remains optimistic about the team’s competitiveness. “In the Champions League, Real plays some matches well and others less so, but they are still competitive,” he remarked. This perspective underscores the importance of patience as the team navigates through a transitional phase under a new coach. The pressure of high expectations can weigh heavily on players and staff alike, making it crucial to allow time for adaptation to new tactics and strategies.
The Vinicius Junior Situation
Complicating matters further is the ongoing tension between Vinicius Junior and Alonso. The Brazilian winger has not scored in his last seven matches, and his relationship with the coach has reportedly strained since his controversial incident during El Clasico. According to The Athletic, Vinicius has even hinted to club president Florentino Pérez that he may not renew his contract if things do not improve. This situation adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous period for Real Madrid.
The stakes are high as the club looks ahead to upcoming fixtures. With both La Liga and Champions League aspirations on the line, how will Madrid respond? The balance between nurturing talent like Vinicius and achieving immediate results will be pivotal in determining their trajectory this season.
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