Real Madrid’s recent performances have become a microcosm of their ongoing struggle to return to the dominating form that has historically defined them. Following a convincing 3-0 victory over Girona, manager Carlo Ancelotti boldly claimed, “We’re back!” However, a closer examination of their exploits reveals a more nuanced reality. The team exhibits both brilliance and vulnerability, suggesting a complex identity still in flux as they navigate the demanding landscape of football.
Real Madrid’s latest matchup against Atalanta provided fertile ground for analysis. A hard-fought 3-2 victory was marred by the early departure of superstar Kylian Mbappé, who exited the pitch 35 minutes into the game due to an injury scare. While the presence of Vinícius Júnior added some much-needed flair, the match exposed several tactical frailties that will need addressing. Atalanta’s tactical approach under Gian Piero Gasperini, often likened to a relentless dental procedure, posed challenges that Real Madrid’s players, particularly above the midfield, struggled to navigate.
Dani Ceballos’ performance, for instance, did little to dispel the notion that he lacks the necessary composure to dictate the pace and rhythm when under pressure. Similarly, Lucas Vázquez appeared vulnerable defensively, especially when matched against Atalanta’s potent Ademola Lookman. This lack of defensive cohesion raises critical questions about Ancelotti’s tactical setup and the overall balance of the team.
Despite these shortcomings, it is impossible to overlook the sheer star power of the squad. The names on the scoresheet—Mbappé, Vinícius, and Jude Bellingham—serve as a testament to the club’s exceptional talent. Particularly noteworthy was Mbappé’s intricate control and finishing touch that led to the opener, alongside Vinícius’s audacious assist for Bellingham’s goal that solidified Madrid’s position. Bellingham’s contributions, characterized by intelligent positioning and decisive finishing, affirm his status as a linchpin in this team.
Yet, this reliance on individual brilliance raises flags concerning the team’s overall coherence. When the trio of Mbappé, Vinícius, and Bellingham share the pitch, they often drift toward the left side, disrupting spatial harmony and leaving gaping holes when one or two are absent. Their positioning versatility poses challenges for maintaining structure, making it evident that Real Madrid’s strengths cannot simply be distilled down to a few exceptional players.
One cannot discuss Real Madrid’s recent form without acknowledging a distinctive edge: resilience. The team demonstrated an admirable capacity to grind out results, a necessary trait if they are to contend effectively in domestic and European competitions. Actions like Vázquez’s time-wasting antics towards the end of the match and Bellingham’s tireless pursuit of every ball exemplify the grit within the squad.
The ability to navigate difficult matches, often termed “winning ugly,” is an invaluable asset. It underscores a mentality that, while not always pretty, can accompany their storied legacy. This persistence is crucial, particularly given the demanding grueling schedules faced in top-tier leagues.
Atalanta’s transformation under Gasperini is a lesson in tactical ingenuity and the power of cohesion among lesser-known players. By optimizing the skill sets of castaway talents like Lookman and Raoul Bellanova, Gasperini has cultivated a fearless squad that can compete with the giants like Real Madrid. This transition from a feast-or-famine style to a balanced and robust unit reflects a keen understanding of modern football’s dynamics.
The tactical identity he has embedded in this Atalanta side is not merely a product of star signings but rather the framework built around the players’ strengths and weaknesses. This adaptability starkly contrasts Real Madrid’s current composition, suggesting that Ancelotti might glean valuable insights from observing how other clubs maximize their resources.
As the season progresses, Real Madrid faces existential questions about their identity and approach. How can they evolve beyond being a constellation of stars that occasionally align? Ancelotti’s ability to integrate individual talents into a fluid, cohesive unit will be crucial if they aspire to regain their commanding presence in Europe.
Moreover, the questions surrounding Mbappé’s condition post-injury adds another layer of complexity. Madrid needs to ensure that their tactics can withstand the absence of superstar players while maintaining the momentum generated by their influential figures.
While Real Madrid may still possess glimmers of their former glory, the path to consistent excellence requires a critical reassessment of both their strengths and limitations. The challenges ahead are palpable, yet they also present an opportunity for regeneration, one that could potentially redefine what it means to be a member of the elite club.