Real Madrid 2015-2016 Preview: Attackers

Real Madrid BBC

Since 2009, when Florentino Pérez recovered his position as president and bought Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, Real Madrid’s most remarkable feature has been its extraordinary firepower. Not for nothing, Los Blancos have been able to score more than a hundred league goals every season since the 2009-10. Last year, however, Carlo Ancelotti developed a game plan in which the midfielders took a more prominent role, and his men managed to play their most attractive football in years, at least in my opinion, but in the end their lack of accuracy in concrete games costed them the trophies.

Rafa Benítez’s biggest efforts in the preseason have been focused in building a robust team that will concede very few goals, and he seems to be succeeding so far. Nevertheless, he should not trust that simply the talent of his attackers will suffice to get the number of goals that a team needs to become champion. Offensive transitions and counterattacks will not be a problem, but some schemes of positional attack will need to be devised in the early months of the competition.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo

The current Ballon D’Or holder is, without a shred of doubt, Real Madrid’s best player. It’s been many years now since the pundits started to claim that he would lose his pace and he would not be able to make a difference playing in the wing and, while it is true that he is not as brilliant as he was in the 2010-11 or 2011-12 seasons, he is still a lethal threat. Having a player with an average of 1.04 goals per game in your roster (who reached an unbelievable 1.13 goals/game last season) is an extraordinary advantage in the long run, which Los Blancos will for sure make profit of.

Taking into account how the preseason has been so far, we must expect Ronaldo to play in his favorite position, as a left winger in a 4-2-3-1 but with freedom to move along the frontline to unbalance the rivals’ defensive system. However, it should not be a surprise to see him playing as a pure striker sometimes when Los Blancos adopt a more defensive stance. This would reduce his direct impact on the game, but would help Real Madrid to create strong superiorities in the midfield, as barely no coach in the world would take the risk of using just one of his centerbacks to mark CR7.

Gareth Bale

Gareth Bale

The Cardiffian had a very convincing first season in Real Madrid, which he culminated with his goals in both finals Real Madrid won, but his output last season did not fulfill the expectations posed on him. The mantra in most of the mainstream media is that the right wing does not suit him and he should be playing on the left, but the truth is that he has managed to play extraordinary games for Los Blancos on the right (see, for example, the brutal 1-6 victory against Schalke 04 in the 2013-14 Champions League), so it can’t just be a matter of positioning.

Still, Rafa Benítez believes that some tactical changes could help Bale show his best football, which is why he has given him the spot of the mediapunta in the 4-2-3-1, where he shone in his last season with Tottenham. There, his long shot will be an extraordinary asset like in the right, and it will be harder to corner him against the wing to force him to play with his weak foot. However, it will be hard for him to exploit his speed in the centre, which will encourage him to escape through the left. If he and Ronaldo manage to cooperate and not obstruct each other, Los Blancos will be virtually unstoppable.

Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema

Playing as a #9 in a team that has Ronaldo and Bale in its lineup is extremely difficult and Benzema is, probably, the man which is best suited for such a task. His wise reading of the game and his ability to drop to the midfield or the wings to open lines for his partners are extraordinary features to unleash the potential of his partners. Besides, and contrary to what most of his critics claim, he is a good finisher who averages a more than decent 0.48 goals per game since he joined Real Madrid (for the sake of completeness, let’s just recall that Raúl averaged 0.44 goals per game throughout his career in Real Madrid), but it is true that, sometimes, his love for the assist makes Real Madrid miss easy occasions that a killer would, for sure, convert.

As it has been published lately, Rafa Benítez wants a pure striker to join the team in order to give Karim some rest in certain moments of the season, but also to put some pressure on him. His virtue will not suffice this season, and he will need to work a lot pressing upfront as Real Madrid’s first defender.

James Rodriguez

James Rodriguez

When Real Madrid dropped €80 million on Rodriguez last summer, many questioned the move? Was he just a one-hit wonder? Did his time at his previous clubs warrant such a move? How will he fit in? James took all those questions and emphatically answered them with an incredible 17 goals and 16 assists across all competitions. What makes these numbers even more staggering is that he missed 13 games due to injury. Had he not, it's not unreasonable to assume that he would've topped the 20/20 mark which is just absurd for someone in his first season with a new team.

So what to expect from James this season? Well, probably more of the the same. Much discussion has been had over Gareth Bale playing as a 10 of sorts behind the striker but with the fluid nature of Rafa's attack in the preseason we can also expect James there as well. He'll likely also get more time out wide where he'll have a chance to beat his man 1-on-1 while using his incredible crossing skills to feed Ronaldo and Bale in the box. It will be interesting to see how much defensive responsibility gets placed on him depending on where he is as the wide players have definitely been asked to do more in the preseason but make no mistake, his primary job will be as the distributor in the final third alongside Luka Modric, two men whose absence was severely felt when Real Madrid couldn't break down low blocks last season.

Jesé Rodríguez

Jesé Rodríguez

The greatest talent that has come out of La Fábrica in the last few years seems to be fully recovered from his injury and has had a very convincing preseason, playing both as a winger or as a pure striker, which makes pretty clear that he will be the first option to replace each of the members of the BBC trio. Benítez’s rotation policy will give him enough opportunities to shine and prove that he can become a world-class player in the near future.

After having seen him in Castilla, many people thought of Jesé as a prospect of a Cristiano Ronaldo type player, but he might be turning into a different thing now. It is clear that he is not as fast as Ronaldo was and he is not a dribbler either, but he is terribly strong and his accuracy in front of the goal is extraordinary (possibly, the best in Real Madrid’s roster). It may seem weird to postulate him as a unique #9 due to his aerial weakness, but that should not be a problem given how easily Ronaldo or Bale occupy the box when it is needed, and this is where we are likely to see him feature a lot throughout the season.

Lucas Vázquez & Denis Cheryshev

Lucas Vázquez & Denis Cheryshev

The couple of canteranos have come back to Madrid after brilliant performances in Villarreal and Espanyol last season. Both of them are pacey wingers that do not hesitate to work a lot in the pressure and that have sufficient individual talent to be decent bench players in Real Madrid, but we should not expect either of them to be decisive in important games. Still, they will be great assets for Benítez to rotate his most important players to make him reach April and May in a good physical condition.

source: managingmadrid.com

Related Posts:

1. Real Madrid 2015/2016 Preview: Midfielders

2. Real Madrid 2015/2016 Preview: Defenders

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Who Should be Real Madrid’s Playmaker?

Bale - Isco - James

When Rafa Benítez was appointed as Real Madrid coach, rumours suggested that Bale would play an important role under the Spaniard.

In Los Blancos’ first preseason game against Roma, the former Napoli boss deployed Bale behind Jesé Rodríguez, and the Welshman impressed. Indeed, it seemed that Bale had been missing freedom to roam around the final third.

While Real Madrid continued to produce some impressive and disciplined football, Bale’s performances in the center waned. In yesterday’s win over Tottenham, the Welsh wizard managed to score an impressive solo goal in his central attacking position, but was outshone by his contenders for the No. 10 position.

Madrid’s first goal came as a result of a remarkable cross by Isco which was met by the Colombian James Rodríguez, who headed Madrid into the lead. Still, all debate continues to be centered on whether Isco should start over James on the wing or vice-versa, when in reality the two youngsters should be primary candidates for the playmaking position.

Real Madrid

Nevertheless, Bale was clear regarding his preferred position after the victory against his former club, stating, "It’s my best position. When I played for Tottenham, I felt I played my best football there and when I play for Wales, I play there and play my best football. For me, that’s my position and it’s where I want to play."

Jonathan Barnett, Bale’s agent, also recently weighed in on the debate regarding his client’s role within the team. "I think he had a conversation with Benítez and between them they will find a position that suits them both. One that suits the team and the one suits Gareth. I think that's the most important thing. It has to suit both."

So far, it seems that Benítez’s decision to play Bale in a central attacking position is one which is not suiting neither the team nor the Welshman himself. Bale’s goal against Tottenham was in and of itself an example of his virtues: an ability to intercept passes and pace – two skills which are better fit for a winger.

Certainly, all the evidence suggests that Benítez does not want Bale to be isolated on the right wing. The most prudent decision, however, seems to be deploying Bale on the left, James on the right, Ronaldo as the striker and Isco as the playmaker.

Such a lineup also seems to be preferred by the fans. In a poll done by Spanish newspaper AS, only 7.2% voted for Bale as a playmaker, with Isco receiving 54.9% of the votes.

Bale is a word class player and would surely settle into the No. 10 position if given time. However, given the likes of Isco, James and even Modrić, Bale is surely more suited to a role on the left flank. Benítez seems to be persistent with his new experiment. However, the Spaniard must be wary and avoid benching either one of two fan favourites simply to accommodate Bale in a position which he has not yet earned.

Gareth Bale

source: managingmadrid.com

Related Posts:
1. Comparing Gareth Bale's 2014/15 Statistics to his 2013/14 Statistics
2. How Real Madrid Can Get the Best out of Isco in 2015-16 Season

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Reasons James Rodríguez Could Endure Sophomore Slump at Real Madrid

James Rodríguez

Last winter Real Madrid seemed to have the Spanish League title in the bag. The team's offensive prowess, coupled with a sturdy and consistent starting XI, led the team to a 22-game unbeaten run. It looked like an unstoppable force.

Then it all came crashing down. One injury after another immobilized the squad, ultimately leaving the team looking like a shadow of its dominant self.

At the center of the team's great frustrations was the absence of James Rodríguez, who proved to be a major fulcrum to the offense. He finished 2014-15 with 17 goals and 15 assists in all competitions for the team. More importantly, the team had a record of three wins, three losses and one draw in that span, by far its worst stretch in the entire 2014-15 season. In that span, Madrid scored just eight goals, an average of only 1.14 goals per game, was shut out twice, and was limited to one goal or less on four occasions; Madrid did not score more than two goals in a game during that stretch.

James Rodriguez

It should be no surprise that when Rodríguez returned in early April, the club erupted for nine goals on the evening; Rodríguez bagged two assists on the evening.

He was second on the team in assists behind Cristiano Ronaldo, led the club in key passes per game (by a large margin), was the team's most consistent crosser, and also tied for the lead in through balls per game. He was also third on the team in shots per game and showed a knack for being aggressive defensively.

There is no doubt that he makes Real Madrid a better team offensively. The question however is whether or not he will endure a sophomore slump or continue his ascendancy?

He is only 24, suggesting that his best years are still ahead of him. He was rather disappointing during the Copa America and struggled to establish himself as Colombia scored a total of one goal in four matches. Part of that was Rodríguez playing out of position. He also had to deal with servicing a woeful Radamel Falcao.

James Rodriguez

The other major question regarding Rodríguez's success for Madrid is where he will actually play. This could determine his success or ultimately be his downfall. For most of 2014-15, Rodríguez rotated between playing on the wing and sitting in the middle of the pitch. He was often given the freedom by coach Carlo Ancelotti to float into the hole behind the attackers, Rodríguez's favorite place to play. From there he could launch clever passes to the forwards, and 15 times this led to goals.

Ancelotti is no longer at Real Madrid, and there are questions about how Rafa Benítez plans to utilize the youngster. The Spaniard's preferred 4-2-3-1 is tailor-made for Rodríguez, as evidenced by Colombia's best moments in the 2014 World Cup. However, Benítez has repeatedly tried to use Gareth Bale in the position to get the best out of the world record signing. The results have been mixed and Rodríguez has shown that he is more capable from that spot. He also has to contend with Isco, who had a terrific preseason for Los Blancos.

The 4-3-3 of Ancelotti allowed for freedom; the 4-2-3-1 is more rigid. If Rodríguez is allowed to play from his favorite spot in the hole, he is going to get the best chance to thrive and succeed in his second year. The Colombian can do damage from the wing in a rigid 4-2-3-1, but will be far less effective and could see his numbers diminish in year two.

Will Rodríguez improve in season two with Real Madrid?

source: latinpost.com

Related Posts:
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Comparing Gareth Bale's 2014/15 Statistics to his 2013/14 Statistics: What do they tell us?

Gareth Bale

When Gareth Bale signed for a world record fee (depending on which sources you read) for Real Madrid in 2013, everyone knew that Los Blancos were getting an enormous talent. In the beginning however, Bale struggled with injury and inconsistency that led up to a terrible El Clasico performance. With the media calling for his head, the Welshman showed great strength of character to bounce back and become one of the top 5 players in the world by the end of the season. His first season ended as a fairytale with a price-tag justifying Copa del Rey goal and a historic La Decima.

However things have not been so smooth for Bale in his sophomore season with the club. For reasons hard to explain, Bale never kicked off on a strong run of form this season and seemed to disappear in the important games for Real. Perhaps looking closer at Bale’s statistics in his two seasons with Madrid will show us where Bale went wrong and where he needs to improve.

(All statistics are taken from Squawka.com and include only performances in La Liga and the Champions League)

Shooting

Gareth Bale - Shooting

2013/14 Season

Total Shots: 120

Total Goals: 21 (6 in UCL)

Shots per goal: 5.71

Goals from inside the box: 16

Percentage of total: 76.19%

Goals from outside the box: 5

Percentage of total: 23.81%

Headed goals: 2

Percentage of total: 9.52%

2014/15 Season

Total Shots: 139

Total Goals: 15 (2 in UCL)

Shots per goal: 9.27

Goals from inside the box: 14

Percentage of total: 93.33%

Goals from outside the box: 1

Percentage of total: 6.67%

Headed goals: 3

Percentage of total: 20%

What does this tell us?

The most interesting and pertinent of all these statistics to look at, are his shots, goals, and shots per goal. First off you notice that despite the claims that Bale wasn’t getting enough of the ball and that he wasn’t getting enough shooting opportunities (due to the selfishness of Cristiano Ronaldo), Bale actually took 19 more shots this season than last year. With that increase you’d expect a couple more goals. Instead you saw a decrease from 21 goals in the 13/14 season to 15 goals in the 14/15 season.

This led to his respectable 5.71 shots per goal (13/14) jumping to a horrific 9.27 shots per goal (14/15). Such a jump not only points to a loss in confidence by Bale, but also to the fact that he might not be shooting from the best of situations. If defenders are learning to close him down better, then Bale has to fire shots from tighter angles. There seems to be proof behind this claim when examining the number of long-range goals Bale scored each season. In the 2013/14 season you see a superb 5 goals scored from outside the box. In the 2014/15 season you see a paltry 1. 

It is important to note here that that 1 goal came from a free kick where no defenders were allowed to tightly mark Bale and close off his angles. This suggests that at least some of Bale’s shooting problems lie in the fact that many defenders have learned and adapted to Bale’s game after his first season. Bale no longer has the element of surprise. But this can’t be too much of an excuse for Bale. World class players always manage to keep their game unpredictable. If the Welshman is at a loss for ideas, here are two ways for Bale to do so:

1. He can improve his movement

Many lethal strikers across the globe continually outwit defenders with their clever movement between the lines and on the shoulder of defenders. However, this is something that Bale is quite clearly hesitant to do. He likes to receive the ball at his feet and charge at defenders. But with defenders beginning to figure out the Welshman, Bale should look to better use the space around him to escape his markers. His header total of 2 and 3 show that Bale has much to improve in this area, and if he can start making smarter runs he might even be half as lethal as a certain Ronaldo in the box (which is plenty enough!).

2. He can improve his dribbling

I haven’t got to the dribbling section of this article yet, so I’ll keep it brief. If Bale wants to keep his style of running at defenders, he needs to become more technical in his take-ons. As of now he looks to push the ball into space and run past defenders. But with 10-15 meters less space to run into in La Liga, Bale gets dispossessed too easily. Glimpses of his close control in matches have shown us Bale is capable of becoming a better tight space dribbler, and he must continue to improve on that if he is to create better shooting opportunities for himself.

Passing

Gareth Bale - Passing

2013/14 Season

Total Chances Created: 50

Assists: 16

Average Pass Accuracy: 78.5%

Average Pass Length: 15.5 Meters

2014/15 Season

Total Chances Created: 58

Assists: 10

Average Pass Accuracy: 78%

Average Pass Length: 15.5

What does this tell us?

The good news for Madridistas is that in a passing sense, Bale has gotten better than last season. He has created 8 more chances this season, indicating that his paltry total of assists (when compared to last season) is down more to poor finishing by his teammates rather than his lack of creative ability. His passing accuracy is an area to improve (albeit a minor area), for Gareth as a player of his ability should be in the 80’s in passing accuracy. 

But again he has done well to almost perfectly maintain his passing accuracy when it is clear that defenders have been marking him more closely this season. In regards to his passing range, it has stayed the same, demonstrating not only that Bale is continuing to attempt risky passes but also that his positioning on the field (in this case meaning how close he is to goal) has stayed relatively the same.

Dribbling

Gareth Bale - Dribbling

2013/14 Season

Take-ons attempted: 147

Take-ons completed: 80

Take-on success: 59.86%

2014/15 Season

Take-ons attempted: 156

Take-ons completed: 89

Take-on success: 57.05%

What does this tell us?

I touched upon this slightly in the shooting section, but it seems the figures do anything but back up what I said. His take-on success in the 2013/14 season went down from a world class 59.86% to a still highly respectable 57.05%. That is only a 2.81% drop from one season to the next. But these figures are skewed due to Bale’s dribbling performance in the Champions League. In Europe, Bale’s take-on success rate was 64.86%. 

This shows that when Bale is still a relatively unknown quantity by teams (as he is on the continent), he is still a force with the ball at his feet. However in La Liga this season, he had more experienced defenders marking him. This is shown in his significantly lower take-on success rate in the league: 54.62%. As Bale begins to play more matches in the Champions League, slowly defenders will be able to figure out how to stop him just like the defenders in La Liga have done. 

If Bale doesn’t change or improve his dribbling ability, his effectiveness when charging at defenders will be seriously nullified. Thus as mentioned before, Bale needs to practice in tight spaces and change his mentality when taking on a player. There needs to be less knocking the ball forward and more touches and tricks. Bale is an excellent footballer and is capable of making the change. He just needs the willingness to do so.

Conclusion

There isn’t too much we can predict about Bale when using these stats, as Bale is still quite young and hasn’t made any major changes to the way he plays the game. What we can make out however, is how good Bale is at the moment and what he needs to do to become better next season.

At the moment, it is safe to say Bale was worse this season than last season. His shooting ability dipped horrifically while his dribbling ability saw a significant decrease in effectiveness. Only his passing improved.

But this doesn’t mean Bale is doomed to continue in this downward trajectory. With Bale gaining valuable experience this season, he can take his game to the next level by working hard on his clinical side of the game, his predatory movement, and his dribbling in tight spaces. Hopefully, if these changes are implemented, we can once again see the Bale that tore Marc Bartra to pieces and scored one of the greatest goals in Copa del Rey history.

source: managingmadrid.com

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Comparing Ronaldo’s 2014/15 statistics to his 2013/14 statistics: What do they tell us?

Cristiano Ronaldo

Footballers constantly undergo evolution from the moment they start kicking a ball till the moment they retire. Each year in a footballer’s development represents a change in the way a footballer approaches and plays the game. However some points in their development stand out more than others.

For Cristiano Ronaldo, some of them would be his step up to the Sporting first team (after bypassing all their youth sides in the same season), his call-up to the Portuguese National squad, his 2006-07 season with Manchester United, and his incredible burst in ability after joining Real Madrid. After watching Ronaldo in the 2014/15 season, it looks as if once again we are witnessing a key change in the way Ronaldo plays the game; so let’s take a closer look.

(All statistics are taken from Squawka.com and include only La Liga and the Champions League)

Shooting

Cristiano Ronaldo - Heading

2013/14 Season

Total Shots: 292

Total Goals: 48

Shots per goal: 6.08

Goals from inside the box: 41

Percentage of total: 85.42%

Goals from outside the box: 7

Percentage of total: 14.58%

Headed Goals: 5

Percentage of total: 10.42%

2014/15 Season

Total Shots: 296

Total Goals: 58

Shots per goal: 5.10

Goals from inside the box: 53

Percentage of total: 91.38%

Goals from outside the box: 5

Percentage of total: 8.62%

Headed Goals: 16

Percentage of total: 27.59%

What does this tell us?

Ronaldo’s shooting statistics are the most interesting and probably the most pertinent of all the statistics to look at. Straight off the bat you notice that Ronaldo’s shots for each of the two seasons are virtually the same (Ronaldo actually took 4 more shots this season!). This might actually surprise and disappoint some, but it should be seen as a good thing. Why? Because Ronaldo scored 10 more goals with virtually the same amount of shots. 

This not only means that Ronaldo on average needed one less shot to score (meaning his efficiency is up significantly), but it also means that Ronaldo didn't have to sacrifice any of his shooting to achieve greater efficiency.

The next most interesting set of stats are his long-shots and heading numbers. From glancing at the figures it is quite clear that Ronaldo was better from range in the 2013/14 season, with 2 more long range goals. He also scored a higher percentage of his goals from range (at almost 15%, significantly higher than his 2014/15 percentage at almost 9%) in the 2013/14 season. 

Again this might seem disappointing for Madridistas, but look at what he has traded it for. In the 2013/14 season Ronaldo "only" scored 5 headed goals, which was still a significant 10.42% of his goal total. However in the 2014/15 season Ronaldo netted a mind-blowing 16 headers: 27.59% of his goal total. It is clear from these figures the transformation Ronaldo has made. 

The Portuguese hitman has consciously taken less attempts from range in order to get into the box more. The trade-off is statistically brilliant: Ronaldo reduced the long-range impact of his total goal tally to about 6% less than last season but improved his heading goal impact by about 17%. Thus Ronaldo has still managed to keep himself deadly from range whilst making himself one of the all-time greats in the air. Now that is something to get excited about!

Passing

Cristiano Ronaldo - Passing

2013/14 Season

Total Chances Created: 69

Assists: 13

Average Pass Accuracy: 82%

Average Pass Length: 14 Meters

2014/15 Season

Total Chances Created: 89

Assists: 19

Average Pass Accuracy: 81%

Average Pass Length: 12.5 Meters

What does this tell us?

The immediate observation of these statistics is that Ronaldo’s assists for this season are significantly higher when compared to his last (6 more in fact). His increase in chances created (20 higher than last season’s total) indicate that it is Ronaldo’s own improvement in the creativity department and not his teammates improved finishing that has led to such an increase in his final third output. To put it another way, Ronaldo created more chances in the league alone (73) in the 2014/15 season than in the Champions League and La Liga combined (69) in 2013/14.

However, Ronaldo has managed this massive improvement with a negligible lower passing average in the 2014/15 season than the 2013/14 season (down by 1%) and a slightly more significant lower average pass length (down by 2.5 meters) (which probably demonstrates Ronaldo’s closer positioning to goal).

So what can we conclude by this? It’s that Ronaldo has improved even more remarkably in his passing then in his shooting. Ronaldo is creating so many more chances for his teammates than last season whilst maintaining a comparable passing average. His only real decline is in passing length, but this is not a huge criticism of his game due to his re-positioning on the field as a number 9 in the 2014/15 season.

Dribbling

Cristiano Ronaldo - Dribbling

2013/14 Season

Take-ons attempted: 164

Take-ons completed: 88

Take-on success: 53.66%

2014/15 Season

Take-ones attempted: 152

Take-ones completed: 79

Take-on success: 51.97%

What does this tell us?

This is one area of the game that CR7 has taken a lot of flak for this season. Many fans and pundits alike believe Ronaldo’s impact across the pitch has decreased due to his sudden lack of dribbling ability. While it is true that Ronaldo now rarely charges from deep towards opposition territory (as evidenced by his 12 less dribbles this season), the belief that Ronaldo has become a "worse" dribbler is false. His take-on success (1.69% less)is only marginally smaller than last season and Ronaldo executed an impressive 60% of his take-ons this season in the Champions League. 

Thus when it mattered, Ronaldo clearly upped his level to drive his team forward single-handedly. Consequently, when examining how all the statistics point to Ronaldo’s evolution as a number 9, it is evident that Ronaldo dribbles less now by choice but still has the ability to up his game (in regard to dribbling) when it matters. Thus Ronaldo and Madrid fans alike can relax, Ronaldo is still as good a dribbler as we expect him to be.

Conclusion

So after the analysis of Ronaldo’s shooting, passing, and dribbling statistics we get a pretty clear picture of who Ronaldo is now and what he will be like in the future. It is clear that right now Ronaldo is a much better player than last season. He shoots more accurately and efficiently, he has tripled his headed output in a trade-off for a small reduction in his long-range output, he creates more chances, and he assists more.

As for the future, it is clear that Ronaldo’s transformation will continue to make him more efficient and deadly. We can expect to see less shots per goals, more headed goals, more goals inside the box, more chances and assists, and the continuation of his famed dribbling ability.

Thus while many claim to be seeing a Ronaldo in decline, the statistics point to something else entirely; a Ronaldo on the incline and a Ronaldo that just keeps getting better, and better, and better…

source: managingmadrid.com

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Reasons why Real Madrid must have faith in Jesé

Jese

Unlike last season, Madrid finally have a squad with depth and must avoid making unnecessary signings.

The summer transfer window tends to be an exciting time for Madridistas. Rumours usually indicate a big signing to add gloss to an already star-studded Madrid squad. So far this summer however, Madrid have abstained from making typically flashy signings.

Danilo, while by no means a cheap addition, is not a Galactico. Kiko Casilla, Marco Asensio, Denis Cheryshev, Lucas Vázquez and Casemiro are excellent reinforcements, but also do not attract the media attention and shirt sales that players such as Bale and James have to offer.

Thus, the rumour mill continues churning. BeIN Sports reports that Los Blancos are leading the chase for Dortmund star Marco Reus, while other rumours continue suggesting a return to Spain for big man Fernando Llorente.

While many fans demand an additional striker to challenge Benzema for the position up top, Benítez’s arrival may deem such calls unnecessary. Already 30, Ronaldo is earmarked to make a permanent move to the No. 9 position. Even if Benítez decides that it is too soon to restrict Cristiano of the freedom he possesses on the left flank, he is more than capable of filling in for Benzema in the occasions where the Frenchman is injured or fatigued.

Bale, Isco and Jesé have even taken up the role in the past. Marco Reus and Llorente are proven and skilled players, but may not necessarily be needed for the current Madrid squad.

Last season, Madrid suffered from a lack of depth. While the injury of Modrić particularly upset Madrid’s trophy pursuit, it is Jesé who Madrid truly missed.

After coming on and scoring against Valencia in the Mestalla on the 22nd of December, 2013, Jesé continued in fine form and finished the season having scoring against FC Barcelona in the Camp Nou and against Atletico in front of the Madrid faithful. Marca and AS routinely portrayed the Madrid youngster on their covers, some labelled him the best La Fábrica graduate since Iker and others even called for Jesé to start ahead of Gareth Bale.

Jese - Injury

Instead of continuing his rise to stardom, Jesé suffered an untimely injury in a Champions League match against Schalke, ruling him out of the 2013/14 campaign. Since then, the Canarian native has struggled to find his form.

As is typical, the impatient Madrid supporters are already overlooking the youngster in search of a proven player. With Madrid already needing to accommodate Isco, James, Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo in only four positions, an additional player to add to Benítez’s confusion may disrupt the squad.

Cheryshev and Vázquez will be quality substitutions when Madrid are in need of creativity and pace. Jesé, meanwhile, must once again show the Madridistas what he has to offer. Having had a complete summer of both fitness and tactical preparation and with Benítez likely to rotate the squad often in the coming season, it is the perfect time.

Fans, however, must be patient and avoid calling for additional reinforcements.

source: managingmadrid.com

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James Rodriguez Looks Every Bit Cristiano Ronaldo's Successor at Real Madrid

james & cristiano ronaldo

It was a celebration we'd seen often, James Rodriguez jogging toward the corner flag, elbow tucked in, finger formed like pistol pointing at the crowd. On previous occasions we'd seen the celebration performed with verve, but this time it was somewhat muted, coming in the middle of Real Madrid's mauling of Getafe in a game of little-to-no consequence on the season's final day.  

Yet, in this exhibition-like 90 minutes, the act preceding Rodriguez's celebration had stood out, leaving behind it a vivid image that felt like a forerunner for a future Real Madrid will soon face.

In the moments earlier the Colombian had stood over a free-kick, lining it up as though he was preparing to be the decoy. This was Cristiano Ronaldo territory after all. Ronaldo's domain. His area of authority. But Ronaldo then did the unexpected, pausing and clearing the way for Rodriguez. Appreciative, the 23-year-old curled it over the wall and past Jordi Codina with astonishing ease. Goal. Celebration.

Two team-mates, separated by seven years but connected by the Galactico tag, embraced.

At the time it felt symbolic, and with each day that passes it continues to do so. Ronaldo will soon need a successor at Real Madrid, someone to pass the torch to, someone to whom he can hand over the keys to the kingdom. Coming off a 61-goal season, the Portuguese isn't ready to do so just yet. But when he is, when the time comes, Rodriguez is waiting, primed to take them.

Overblown? Maybe. But consider the whole package; there's something to it.

james - celebrates his goal

At Real Madrid there must be a headline act—something or someone who can take Real's show of glamour to a place nearly all others can't. The headline act must be a cocktail of star power, worldwide appeal, good looks, marketing potential and a penchant for the spectacular. Rodriguez is, and has, all of those things. And he blends them together with an alluring silkiness.

He's an archetypal Real Madrid star.

If you were to put together a showreel of the Colombian's 2014-15 season, it would be as eye-catching as nearly any in Europe. There was his lashed volley from an absurd angle at Los Carmenes against Granada; his swerving, long-range thump at the Riazor against Deportivo La Coruna; his outrageous, first-time blast at the Bernabeu against Almeria; his dual one-two special at home against Malaga.

Naturally, the World Cup sensation's reel couldn't match the sheer volume of Ronaldo's, the dazzling feet of Lionel Messi's or the tenacious power of Luis Suarez's. But maybe only Messi could put together a more breathtaking visual package. On highlights alone, Rodriguez had nearly every player on the continent covered, accounting for practically half of Real Madrid's most memorable strikes on his own.

What's more, he did it in just his first season at one of Europe's behemoths. At 23. Following extreme scrutiny. Burdened by a £63 million price tag.

james - celebrates his goals with fans

When Ronaldo first made the switch to the Spanish capital from Manchester United in 2009, the Ballon d'Or winner totalled 33 goals and seven assists in his opening season, playing as the focal point of the club's attack. After joining from Monaco, Rodriguez tallied 17 and 16, respectively, his total contribution similar while operating as one third of a midfield three.

"The 3-in-1 James," Marca dubbed him, rejoicing in the way he "runs, scores and assists." On that occasion, the Madrid-based daily pictured Rodriguez in silvery-white armour, a purple cape on his back, a Superman logo splashed across his chest and a glow emanating from his outline.

"The Colombian cat arrived in a jungle with an overpopulation of midfielders and took no time to let roar," Marca added, and at other points labelled him "St. James," "James the jellifier," "James—the great Whites' hope" and most significantly, "King James," playing on the nickname of another worldwide phenomenon.

Marca, of course, has never been shy to anoint a star, but the regularity with which it did so last season was notable.

goal celebration

It's easy to see why, too. Aside from the output, there's both an industry and efficiency to Rodriguez's game that lends him perfectly to a football world that's becoming more analytical and data-driven by the week. Such qualities will also make him a hit at the hypercritical Bernabeu.

Whereas Gareth Bale has become a polarising figure in Chamartin because of a questionable defensive contribution, Rodriguez's willingness to put in a shift, as the saying goes, has endeared him to a fanbase very much accustomed to over-indulged footballing icons.

Prepared to track back, tackle, harass and scrap, Rodriguez's two-way commitment is indicative of that which is becoming increasing necessary for the game's leading players at a time when performances can be stripped to their bare bones by almost anyone owning a computer and a web browser.

Take this for example: According to WhoScored.com, Bale was significantly out-tackled by Rodriguez (26 to 40) in less minutes in La Liga last season, and needed almost double the shots (103 to 53) to score exactly the same number of goals (13).

That bodes well for Rodriguez as a new-age star, his efficiency already having a profound effect on the Real Madrid outfit he's still only new to.

james - the superman

Yet, what's most tantalising about Rodriguez's potential is the possibilities, the options, he will give to a team, a manager and a club in the coming years.

When he arrived in Madrid, he was exclusively a No. 10, a gifted technician who liked to sit behind the striker and manipulate a game with his dazzling left boot. Twelve months down the line, he's still that but also so much more. In 2014-15 he played on the left and the right; in central midfield and attacking midfield and as a wide forward. He was a roaring success in all of them; all that's left to show is an ability to play as a false nine and he's mastered the set. Thus, what Real Madrid are getting bundled with Rodriguez's precocious individual flair is systematic versatility as the Colombian gradually shifts toward the team's most prominent role.

That shift may be 12 months from completion. It could be 24. It could be more. What's clear is that it will need Ronaldo to step aside to allow it do so, and Ronaldo still has so much to offer Real Madrid.

But when the Portuguese is ready to hand over the keys to the kingdom, Rodriguez looks every bit his natural successor, the player ready to carry forward the Real Madrid star cocktail and give it a modern twist.

source: bleacherreport.com

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Why Lucas Vazquez Is the Forgotten Real Madrid Player Who Can Shine in 2015-16

Lucas Vazquez at Espanyol

This summer it was Casemiro, two summers earlier it was Daniel Carvajal and two before that it was Jose Callejon. In the not-too-distant future, it could be Alvaro Morata as well. Evidently, Real Madrid quite like a buy-back clause. 

The latest man to return to the Santiago Bernabeu in such circumstances, however, is the far lesser-known Lucas Vazquez.

Now 24, Vazquez is a product of Real Madrid's youth academy, having joined the club in 2007 as a 16-year-old. Part of Carlo Ancelotti's squad that toured the United States for last summer's pre-season campaign, the winger was then sent to Catalonia and spent the 2014-15 season on loan with Espanyol. In that deal, Real Madrid got exactly what they wanted: significant playing time for the forward and a negligible buy-back option of €1 million that they've now exercised. 

Under Sergio Gonzalez at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat, Vazquez enjoyed the sort of prominence he needed, starting 31 of Espanyol's 38 league games as a hard-working right-winger. In total, he scored four goals and tallied six assists in all competitions and finished eighth in La Liga for successful dribbles with 71, per WhoScored.com. Three of the seven names in front of him were Lionel Messi, Neymar and Isco. 

Lucas Vazquez at Espanyol vs Bilbao

Naturally, dribbling, trickery and hard-running form strong components of the Galician's game, but part of what will have appealed to new Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez is Vazquez's defensive commitment. Last season, the winger was second only to Victor Sanchez for total tackles at Espanyol, and he regularly demonstrated a willingness to track back and support his right-back.

Such a two-way capacity will have played a key role in his return to the Spanish capital, where Marca dubbed him the "the fearless rookie" because of his all-action playing style. The Madrid-based daily also labelled Vazquez "a strategic bargain" and "a pragmatic coup," remarking that he's following "in Callejon's footsteps."

For Real Madrid, the comparison with Callejon is a neat one, given he also spent time at Espanyol before returning to the Bernabeu to be an extremely useful secondary option in attack for Los Blancos. Vazquez, it's hoped, could prove to be something similar, a tireless and aggressive runner who might help shift the essence of this current Real Madrid outfit from precision to power.

Lucas Vazquez at Espanyol vs Atletico

Additionally, the club's recalling of a right-sided attacker might represent the clearest indication yet that Gareth Bale will switch to his preferred left wing, with Marca reporting last month that Bale is determined "to throw off the positional yoke" and move away from the right. Should the Welshman be allowed to do so, Benitez will likely position Cristiano Ronaldo at the head of the attack and play the more technical Isco or James Rodriguez down the right.

In that scenario, Vazquez becomes a back-up option of contrast on the right wing, with his preference for hugging the sideline differing from the cut-inside inclinations of Isco and Rodriguez—remember, when looking for secondary options, variety is the ingredient a manager desires.
Additionally, Benitez's expected introduction of substantial rotation throughout the XI should open the door for players such as Vazquez and Jese, the sort of back-up men whose games stagnated under Ancelotti's extremely consistent selection policy.

However, as noted by ESPN FC's Nicholas Rigg, there are some doubts as to whether the buy-back of Vazquez was fuelled by a need to protect Real Madrid against UEFA's homegrown player regulations for the Champions League:

"European football's governing body stipulates that clubs must have at least eight players in their 25-man squad who have been at the club for three years between the ages of 15-21, or have been at another club in the same association for that same amount of time.

At the moment, Madrid are fine with 10 players falling under those conditions. However, both Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos have been linked with moves away from the club this summer and that would reduce the number to eight. Alvaro Arbeloa's future is also up in the air and that leaves Madrid in a dangerous position for the Champions League."

Lucas Vazquez at Real Madrid vs Inter Milan

Might concerns over that quota be behind the re-signing of the winger? Perhaps.

But wherever he's gone, Rafa Benitez has shown an eagerness to get hands-on with a club's academy and the talent it has produced, and with a history of working with the youth setup at Real Madrid, the Madrilenian understands the importance of maintaining a connection between the club's various tiers.

Vazquez appears to have benefitted from that. And if he's able to provide Los Blancos with some of what we saw at Espanyol, Real Madrid could benefit too.

source: bleacherreport.com

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Gareth Bale will define his Real Madrid career under Rafa Benitez in 2015-16

When Carlo Ancelotti was presented as Real Madrid manager in the summer of 2013, the Spanish media nicknamed him "the fixer." A man to come in and pour cold water over the fires started by his predecessor Jose Mourinho. Those fires have long since burned out, but there is still some fixing to do in order for the 10-time European champions to be fully functional again.

The Italian's calm and tranquil approach, one that brought a "family" atmosphere to the Madrid camp, has left a lasting impression with few problems for Rafa Benitez, his successor, to deal with. Benitez still has one thing to fix at the Santiago Bernabeu, however, and he goes by the name of Gareth Bale.

Gareth Bale - Rafa Benitez

Twelve months ago the former Tottenham Hotspur man had enjoyed a dream first campaign in Spain. Not only had he produced an impressive return of 21 goals and 16 assists across La Liga and the Champions League, he had scored big goals at crucial times. His stunning winner in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona was a personal highlight and his campaign got better with a decisive goal in the Champions League final. He had hit the big time and succeeded.

A year on and the Welshman has suffered more than his fair share of the infamous Bernabeu booing and looked set for an early exit from the Spanish capital under the spotlight of plenty of fan and media pressure. Manchester United looked prepared to offer the jet-heeled attacker a way back to his comfort zone of the Premier League and Madrid would receive a huge chunk of the £86 million they paid for the player just two years ago.

Reports suggested Bale had clashed with talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, and his lack of the Spanish language left him distant from the rest of the team. The most expensive player in the world had seemingly gone from hero to villain in less than 12 months and the only way seemed to be the highway. Real Madrid had chewed him up and looked set to spit him back out. He would not have been the first and he would not be the last.

Bale has always had at least one supporter throughout, however, and he is the only man he needs support from. Madrid president Florentino Perez is not ready to give up on his most expensive Galactico and that will ensure he gets at least another season to get it right at Madrid. Next season is set to be Bale's most important yet -- for club and country.

Benitez has been charged with winning trophies at Madrid, but he has also been charged with getting Bale up alongside the likes of Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Neymar. That was the idea from the start, but it hasn't quite worked out that way. Perez has kept faith and part of the reason he picked Benitez to succeed Ancelotti was the former Liverpool and Valencia coach's desire to take Bale to the top.

It may have been as much through convenience as necessity that Benitez traveled to watch Bale feature for Wales in the Euro 2016 qualifying match against Belgium last Friday, but it also spoke volumes. The 55-year-old is known for his attention to detail, and although he has a family home not too far from Cardiff, his visit to see his most expensive player score the winner in a crucial victory over Belgium tied in well with reports that he is to make Bale the central figure of his new-look Madrid.

Bale - Benitez

The pair spoke in the hotel before the match and it seemingly buoyed Bale, who helped send Wales closer to a first appearance in a major international tournament for 58 years. He scored the winner and coach Chris Coleman poured praise on his talisman for leaving nothing on the pitch. Bale gave his all not only for his country but for his new club coach watching on from the stands.

Benitez may have made time to watch as many of his new charges in action for their nations as possible over the weekend, including seeing Cristiano Ronaldo notch his third hat trick in as many matches, but his personal visit to see Bale not only on the pitch but before the match in the Wales camp was telling.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher revealed his former coach did the same before taking control at Anfield and the move rubbed off well on him, Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen -- three pillars of the team at the time. Perez and Madrid fans will hope Benitez's visit to see Bale will have a similar positive impact for the forthcoming campaign. It certainly made an immediate impression.

Benitez will have noted how Bale was given a role without limits for his country and how the team made him the central figure of their attacks -- with success to match. That same freedom may not be offered to him at the Bernabeu, especially with a much stronger squad around him including a certain 61-goal Ronaldo, but it should help free him from a role out on the right that he has not complained about publicly but that has not suited him for the most part.

Gareth Bale celebrates his goal

Ancelotti's favoured 4-3-3 is set to be scrapped for a 4-2-3-1 lineup under the Spaniard, and that could result in a starting role out on the left or further in the centre for the 25-year-old. Indeed, Benitez's desire for rotations could see Bale play across the attack, including the No. 9 role, and that could help him and the team. Plenty will depend on Ronaldo's desire, or lack of it, to play centrally, but the indications are that Benitez will give more weight to the Welshman.

Bale's recuperation will be a subplot to the ultimate aim of winning everything Madrid compete for this season, but it is not an entirely new role for Benitez. During his short stint at Chelsea, owner Roman Abramovich took the failing form of Fernando Torres into account when making Benitez an unpopular appointment at Stamford Bridge. Torres was another big-money signing struggling, albeit at a more alarming level than Bale, and Benitez at least lifted him from the disastrous levels he had encountered on swapping Liverpool for London.

Benitez's task will not only be to get Bale feeling comfortable in a position on the pitch, but it will be to get his teammates to fully trust him and to get him more integral in the squad both on and off the pitch. The Welshman has been too reliant on his old Spurs teammate Luka Modric in the past, and it was no coincidence that Bale struggled this term with the Croatian on the sidelines through injury for a vast period of the campaign.

As a player, Bale is expected to get more one-on-one time with Benitez, and that too should only help. His new coach's attention to detail will not go unnoticed, and although it may not sit too popular with some, that detail should be perfect for a player who is striving desperately not to be a flash in the pan in the Spanish capital.

Bale, too, will need to put in his fair share of hard work. Benitez is expected to ask more of him defensively, as with the rest of the squad, and while players such as James Rodriguez and Isco succumbed to the team demands of Ancelotti, Bale often looked lackadaisical in his defensive duties. That aspect will have to improve and Benitez will try to get that out of him.

Next season will be a huge test for both Bale and Benitez, but if the new Madrid coach can get the best from the Welshman, and keep the harmony among his star names, silverware should not be absent come the end of it. With Bale possibly leading Wales in Euro 2016, the next campaign could define the Madrid man as more than just the most expensive player on the planet.

Gareth Bale

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