Zinedine Zidane is no newcomer to the Santiago Bernebau and Real’s 5-0 win against Deportivo La Coruna, it is clear the incoming coach has a clear message to send.
It has been almost a decade since the Frenchman last played his final match in Los Blancos colours but results prove he is just as talented from the sidelines.
The victory was straightforward which brought delight to the Madridista faithful whom have become accustomed to varying performances.
While Zidane, in his first week as coach, smiled for the cameras and told supporters what they wanted to hear, his desire for success appeared to have somewhat liberated the players on and off the pitch.
The general structure was not significantly altered by the French wiz but Spaniards Isco and Dani Carvajal were both starters for the hosts with James Rodriguez and Jese coming on as substitutes.
Welshman Gareth Bale and forward Karim Benzema were the heroes for the side, easily overcame its opponents.
However the real test for Zidane and his new tactical approach will be the clashes against the bigger teams not only in domestic competitions but also in Europe.
His position will no doubt be judged on results with club President Florentino Perez longing for the return of the “golden era” of Los Galacticos with a squad that was almost untouchable and where Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano still had a major role in the side.
Unlike those times, Zidane has a host of egos to control, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is not unheard of for the Portuguese star to have a string of below average performances yet even at 31 years of age, the new coach still has faith that his star forward can deliver the success the Real society craves.
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But the future lies with Bale, with the 26-year-old possessing the same qualities as Ronaldo including bursts of pace, excellent aerial abilities, strength as well as the pitch awareness and when to assist rather than go for glory.
On Sunday the Welshman was given his orders which where to ultimately move into areas where he could hurt the opposition.
Which of course worked wonders and added to the visually pleasing football displayed by the hosts.
Yet the 43-year-old Frenchman praised the attitudes of the players but consented that improvements are needed and will be made in due time.
Indeed time looks to be on the side of Los Galacticos with the upcoming six La Liga fixtures being attainable results ahead of their Champions League round of 16 clash with Italian heavyweights AS Roma.
The task of catching Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will be an uphill battle but one which will be of the utmost importance for the Madridistas.
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