Real Madrid's 12-game La Liga Progress Report

Real Madrid's 12-game La Liga Progress Report

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As we enter the November international break, our series of 2015-16 team progress reports continues with an examination of Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have had a decent season thus far, despite trailing rivals Barcelona in the La Liga standings and the injuries to a few of the side’s key players.

What has gone right?

Coach Rafael Benitez had a goal during preseason to unite the squad in order to create a successful and cohesive unit. It seems as though his attempts are making progress, as Los Blancos have begun to play a more fluent style of football. Much of this can be attributed to the strength of the midfield whom, naturally, pull the strings.

Younger players such as Isco Alarcon have been able to prove their worth and make their mark on the squad. Indeed, they contribute to the total of 179 chances created for Los Galacticos and the 26 goals scored. Yet what is more impressive is the way in which they work well as an incredible trio. Isco, alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, relish the holding-midfield role, however, have all worked alongside one another to help mould a formidable central trio.

What has gone wrong?

Despite the strengths in attack, defence can at times be a weak point. Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas has proven himself to be a formidable figure in between the sticks, but the fact of the matter is at times the final save is left up to him. The loss to Sevilla is an excellent example of this.

Number one: Keylor Navas
Number one: Keylor Navas

Indeed more teams are striking Real on the counter – which at times is the only way – catching them off-guard and placing them on the back foot. Spaniard Sergio Ramos acts as the anchor in the centre of defence and in the majority of these situations, yet when the wingers are expected to have an attacking influence, it becomes difficult for them to track back and hence they are exploited.

Benitez has and will continue to address this issue.

What is next?

The next few fixtures should (on paper at least) be easy victories for Los Galacticos, excluding the upcoming El Clasico clash this weekend against the Catalans. This match will be a true test of their defensive structure, with Barca boasting one of the strongest front lines in La Liga and the world. It will be difficult if Sergio Ramos is ruled out due to injury with Brazilian Marcelo already stuck on the sidelines. Let us hope that Portuguese international Pepe keeps a level head if he assumes a position in the starting XI.

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