Real Madrid: Questions Loom After Victory Over Sevilla

With their second consecutive win, Real Madrid remains in close pursuit of FC Barcelona in the La Liga standings. However, as the year 2025 draws to a close, the team finds itself grappling with more uncertainties than reassurances. Their current form is notably inferior to the one exhibited at the season’s outset. Following a lackluster second half at Anfield Road, persistent issues have emerged that the squad has yet to address. While the victory against Athletic Bilbao showcased their potential, it proved to be an isolated incident rather than a sign of consistent improvement, particularly following their disappointing performance on November 4 against Liverpool.

The absence of Eduardo Camavinga and Trent Alexander-Arnold since the match in San Mamés has undoubtedly impacted the team. Still, these injuries alone do not account for the collective shortcomings observed on the pitch.

Pressing Problems Persist

It’s not uncommon for a team to experience dips in form throughout a season. However, when such slumps occur, a cohesive unit should rely on fundamental principles to regain its rhythm. Earlier this season, Xabi Alonso‘s side relied on an effective high press that provided defensive stability during matches. Unfortunately, this aspect of their game has deteriorated significantly, leading many analysts to question its root causes. Observers have noted that Madrid’s defensive line has dropped 20 meters deeper on the pitch compared to two months ago during phases without possession. Consequently, executing an effective press becomes challenging due to the expansive gap between attackers and defenders, leaving midfielders with too much ground to cover.

This analysis, while factual, fails to encapsulate the full picture behind Madrid’s pressing decline. Two primary factors contribute to this regression: a lackadaisical attitude from forwards and insufficient sharpness from midfielders. Against Sevilla, the midfield struggled significantly. Arda Güler appeared too inexperienced for his role as an interior midfielder in a three-man setup. Meanwhile, Aurélien Tchouaméni, often touted as a cornerstone of Madrid’s defensive stability, frequently found himself out of sync regarding his interventions and positioning across the field. His defensive contributions are often overstated; several times during the match against Matías Almeyda’s side, Sevilla created clear-cut chances with minimal effort.

Rodrygo Shines Amidst Concerns

Despite these issues, Thibaut Courtois once again emerged as a beacon of hope for Los Merengues, consistently delivering standout performances since his return from injury. Following the match against Sevilla, he candidly addressed the team’s deficiencies: “As we head into 2026, we must improve. This week off will benefit us all as we rest and refine our game.” Amidst this disheartening landscape, there are still glimmers of optimism—most notably through Rodrygo’s resurgence. The Brazilian winger demonstrated technical prowess and precision on set pieces that proved detrimental to Sevilla’s defense.

Before assisting Jude Bellingham with a perfectly executed free kick, Rodrygo nearly opened the scoring himself from a corner—another testament to his growing influence on the pitch. Additionally, Fran García provided much-needed width in the first half by consistently making runs forward and offering passing options for his teammates. It is hoped that his proactive approach was guided by Alonso’s tactical instructions and that Álvaro Carreras will replicate this in their upcoming fixture against Real Betis.

The season has seen too many instances where wingers have lacked support from their full-backs—a trend that must change if Madrid hopes to regain its competitive edge.

As 2025 closes, Real Madrid stands at a crossroads—while they secured a vital win against Sevilla at Santiago Bernabéu, questions about consistency and tactical execution loom large. Will they find their rhythm in 2026 or continue down this uncertain path?