Real Madrid Impressive but Vinicius Junior Strains Escalate – Important El Clasico Talking Points
This proved to be almost a flawless outing from Real Madrid, as they beat Barcelona by a 2-1 scoreline during El Clasico to stretch their advantage in first place of La Liga with a five-point cushion.
The English midfielder notched his first goal in the league along with assist this term following a difficult spell coming back from shoulder surgery.
The French forward showed his clinical touch in front of goal, and the coach's game plan in his first El Clasico in the dugout proved perfectly.
But then the Vinicius Junior question emerged again another time.
Frustrated with his substitution, the star forward complained on his way right by the coach and marched to the dressing room, before returning to the substitute area later.
Manager's Approach Gets Positive Outcomes from the Midfielder
In his first derby, Alonso did well, given that seven of Real's last eight coaches were defeated in their first La Liga match against Barca.
Following the laissez-faire method under Ancelotti did not deliver in the previous campaign, Alonso's positional game-model produced a significant outcome.
A specialist commented, “He got it spot on. Madrid were impressive, while the visitors didn't play well because of Madrid's tactics.”
When not in possession, they pressed high for as long as they could, and when bypassed, they tracked back with discipline, all players including Vinicius.”
“They defended in two lines separated by a short distance. The opposition were unable to break through.”
This approach looks to be beneficial for Bellingham, as he previously was essentially asked to cover multiple roles in the engine room and beyond.
On paper the young star started wide right, however he could to come inside and assist the attack or enter the box.
Balague stated, Employing Eduardo Camavinga in central midfield, this provides more dynamism and additional options to block the spaces.”
This led to them to position Bellingham on the right-hand side. Certainly his role included to keep an eye on Mbappe's movements on the ball and found openings, connecting with him a few times.”
He was told to enter the area and position himself near the outskirts of the area, his most effective zone. Additionally, he moved centrally to close the inside channels and cause Barca's task tough.”
Conflict Issues Laid Bare
There's no doubting that the fans adore Vinicius, calls for him were sung multiple times by an enthusiastic home supporters.
However multiple numerous stories in recent months that the club might think about allowing his departure should a suitable bid arrived.
He has one season to go on his deal when this term concludes, yet talks over a new deal are at a standstill.
Vinicius' behavior after coming off with 20 minutes left spoke of issues. After the full-time whistle, he was held back as he attempted to confront Lamine Yamal.
Balague said, Many will criticize him and rightly so, because it showed a lack of respect toward his replacement taking his place.”
“But since being a kid, his life has been in a hostile world, and he feels that he faces opposition.”
“That mentality is difficult to shake, particularly since you feel near number one in the world, but the team shifts the focus towards Mbappe as the key figure.”
“This season he has perceived that the club isn't protecting him. Rumors indicate, possibly leaked by the club, or not denied by the club, that they wouldn't be unhappy an offer worth €250 million for him and sell him.”
He is aware of this, and when the coach substituted him – reasonably, because Vinicius stopped dropping back as he should – in his mind he says why single me out?’.”
“It will be difficult to mend relations among the parties and him now.”
Barcelona Style “Falls Apart”
Following victories in all four of last season's derbies, Sunday's performance represented Barca's shaky start to the campaign.
Fitness issues have deprived Hansi Flick of crucial contributors including Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski plus others, and the approach isn't working when they are missing.
Balague commented, “It's like the whole team is a little bit less sharp without the ball, with less desire to win it back, with reduced intensity to get the possession back.”
They are more vulnerable to break them down. Should the defense is not organized, as it wasn't the Mbappe goal as Balde failed to step up, they are not helped by teammates failing to press those on the ball adequately.”
Yamal, the main threat earlier, was well contained.
Key players weren't at their best. Lamine appears in top condition, possibly because of groin problems