In the La Liga arena, has Real Madrid really regained its vitality? Their performance of four wins and one draw in five matches has allowed them to return to the top of the table, but hidden problems are still "lingering." The defensive line is plagued by injuries, the recruitment plan has not been implemented, and there are even shortcomings in the depth of the squad that are "holding back" their championship aspirations. As the "Galactic Battleship" sets sail towards the peak once again, will these potential crises become deadly icebergs?
Over the past few weeks, Real Madrid's performance has finally given fans a sigh of relief. Consecutive victories have not only helped them recover from their early-season slump but also reclaimed the top spot in the La Liga standings. With four wins and one draw in five games, the results look quite impressive. Especially as injured players gradually return, the team seems to have gained greater resilience.
However, upon closer inspection, the situation is not entirely optimistic. Key central defender Militao and right-back Carvajal remain long-term absentees, and the defensive line issues have not been resolved. Instead, they rely on the excellent coordination ability of the midfield and attack to hold up many situations. It's like an old house with a shiny exterior, but the beams inside have been eaten away by termites, becoming loose and weak. If Real Madrid's "defensive dam" remains unrepaired, even if they temporarily reach the top, the road ahead may not be smooth sailing.
The biggest problem for Real Madrid this season is that the shortcomings of the defense are becoming increasingly apparent. The absence of Militao and Alaba has completely deprived the entire defense of its backbone. Mendy's performance at left-back has become a "talking point" among fans, not to mention the instability of Jovetic as a defensive midfielder. Several key positions are like patches on tires, prone to leak air at any moment.
In several crucial matches, the mediocre performance of Real Madrid's defense was shocking to behold. Time and time again, they failed to mark opponents effectively, allowing them easy scoring opportunities, forcing goalkeeper Courtois to frequently perform "high catches and low blocks." Although Courtois' performance was impeccable, after all, the goalkeeper is the last line of defense. Playing like this every game would be exhausting, bordering on turning him into an "iron man." The problems with Real Madrid's defense are not just about a lack of personnel but require adjustments and strengthening throughout the system.
When discussing Real Madrid's defensive issues, it's impossible not to mention the name Vallejo. He was once a sought-after star in Frankfurt's defense, with outstanding physical qualities, speed, and judgment. However, since joining Real Madrid, his career has slid downhill like a slide. Multiple severe injuries have almost rendered his physical functions useless, causing him to lose control of his state and even fail to keep up with the pace of the game.
Now, Vallejo's performance not only fails to earn the trust of the coaching staff but has also made him the "top deadwood" in the eyes of fans. Real Madrid has made it clear that they intend to terminate his contract and let him find a new club. This reflects not only the tragedy of an individual player but also the risks that big clubs face in recruitment—no matter how talented a player is, they can quickly go from being a "hot commodity" to a "cast-off" after experiencing serious injuries.
Throughout Real Madrid's history, similar failed recruitments are not uncommon. From Drenthe to Daniel Parejo, these players impressed before joining Real Madrid but failed to fulfill their potential due to various reasons. Vallejo is just one example, but his experience undoubtedly reminds the management once again: when choosing players, stability and health are as critical as ability.
Facing the defensive crisis, Real Madrid's management has begun to take action. According to the latest news, Zubimendi, the defensive midfielder from Real Sociedad, has agreed to join Real Madrid at the end of the season. Zubimendi, as a defensive midfielder, is both offensive and defensive, with excellent passing and controlling abilities, making him an ideal candidate to fill the gap in Real Madrid's midfield. However, the actual completion of this transfer will have to wait until the end of the season, as the player himself also hopes to properly conclude his time with Real Sociedad this season.
On the other hand, two young players' names have appeared on Real Madrid's recruitment list—Dean Hoysen and Kolkicz, the "twins" from Bournemouth. These two young players have shown promise in defense and at left-back. Although the expected transfer fee is as high as 70 million euros, the changes in Real Madrid's recruitment strategy in recent years have also shown the foresight of the management. Compared to the past practice of splashing out large sums of money on big-name players, Real Madrid now prefers to invest in young players, saving budgets while laying the groundwork for the future.
Real Madrid's midfield has always been a source of pride for the team. Over the past decade, the iron triangle formed by Casemiro, Modric, and Kroos has led Real Madrid through its golden era. However, with the passage of time, Casemiro's departure and the gradual aging of Modric and Kroos have made the midfield's offensive and defensive issues increasingly evident.
Zubimendi's joining is seen as a "shot in the arm." Not only does he possess excellent defensive capabilities, but he can also create scoring opportunities for the team through precise long passes and coordination during matches. His arrival may solve some midfield problems to a certain extent. However, the real test lies in whether he can adapt to the high-pressure environment at Real Madrid. After all, playing for Real Madrid is never just about kicking the ball; it's also a mental "hard battle."
It's worth noting that Zubimendi is eager to join Real Madrid, largely because of one name—Xabi Alonso. This Real Madrid legend is now emerging in the coaching world, with advanced tactical concepts and a unique approach to cultivating young players. If Alonso were to take over Real Madrid in the future, it would undoubtedly bring a breath of fresh air to the team.
Alonso's tactical style, focusing on ball possession and quick advancement, is very suitable for Real Madrid's current lineup. Moreover, his appeal could attract more top-level players to join. This can be seen from the trust Zubimendi places in him. The future Real Madrid needs breakthroughs not only in players but also in the choice of coaches.
Judging from the current situation, Real Madrid's recovery is just the beginning, and there are still many "hard battles" to come. Urgent reinforcements are needed for the defense, and changes in the midfield are imperative. The success or failure of the recruitment strategy will directly determine the direction of the team in the coming seasons.
Ultimately, Real Madrid's revival is a "protracted war." Only by making precise decisions at each critical juncture can the Galatic Battleship truly set sail towards new heights.
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