Los Blancos Commanding however Vinicius Junior Tensions Intensify – Major Clasico Talking Points
This proved to be nearly a flawless performance for Real Madrid, who overcame their arch-rivals two goals to one during the famous derby to increase their lead at the summit in the Spanish league to five points.
Jude Bellingham got his inaugural goal in the league and setup this term following a challenging spell coming back from shoulder surgery.
Mbappe showed his deadly performance when scoring, while the manager's strategy during his debut El Clasico as coach worked like a charm.
But then the issue surrounding Vinicius came to the forefront once more.
Frustrated at his substitution, Vinicius protested as he walked straight past his manager and stormed off the pitch, before reappearing to the bench later.
Tactical Setup Delivers Success for Bellingham
In his first derby, Alonso did well, given that seven of Real's recent managers were defeated in their debut league meeting against their rivals.
After the laissez-faire style of Carlo Ancelotti failed to get results last season, the new tactical system yielded its first major result.
An expert commented, “He got it spot on. Madrid were very good, while the visitors were off-color because of what Real Madrid were doing.”
When not in possession, they pressed high for as long as they could, if overcome, they retreated with discipline, everybody including the forward.”
The team's shape with two banks separated by five to 10 metres. Barca struggled to penetrate.”
This approach looks to be positive for the midfielder, as he in the past had been tasked to do everything in the engine room and additional duties.
On paper the 22-year-old was positioned on the right, however he could to come inside and either link with Mbappe or get into scoring positions.
Balague continued, With the French midfielder in the middle, this provides increased movement and more ways to close down the passing lanes.”
As a result them to deploy Bellingham wide right. I'm sure his role included to keep an eye on the forward's positioning when he had the ball and had space, connecting with him repeatedly.”
“He was asked to enter the area and be around just outside the box, where he poses a threat. He also drifted in to block central spaces and make Barcelona's life tough.”
Conflict Issues Laid Bare
It's clear that supporters love Vinicius, his name rang out on several occasions by the passionate home supporters.
However multiple various accounts lately that Real Madrid would consider selling him if an attractive proposal was made.
The winger will have one season to go on his deal come the end of the season, but negotiations for an extension are at a standstill.
Vinicius' behavior when substituted with 20 minutes left spoke of issues. Post-game, he had to be restrained as he attempted to confront Yamal.
The analyst commented, “Everyone will have a go at him for good reason, as it demonstrated disrespect for Rodrygo who replaced him.”
However, from a young age, he has existed in a challenging environment, and he believes that the world is hostile.”
“That mentality is tough to overcome, notably when you feel on the verge of the best player, but the team drives the axis in favor of Mbappe as the key figure.”
“This season he believes that Real Madrid has not supported him. Rumors indicate, possibly leaked by the club, or with the club not denying it, that they would be open an offer worth a quarter-billion euros to sign him and allow him to leave.”
“He feels all that, and after he was taken off – fairly, as he ceased tracking back as expected – in his mind he says why always me?.”
“It will be difficult to reconcile with the club and him at the moment.”
Barcelona Style “Falls Apart”
Following victories in each of the recent derbies, this outing highlighted Barca's shaky beginning of the season.
Fitness issues have robbed the manager of key players including Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Olmo, and the approach isn't working in their absence.
The expert said, “It's like the whole team lack sharpness defensively, not as eager to regain possession, less aggressive to reclaim the ball.”
“It's easier to create chances against them. If the defensive line is flawed, like on the Mbappe goal since the defender kept him onside, the midfield doesn't assist by teammates failing to press the ball-carrier adequately.”
Lamine Yamal, tormentor-in-chief of Real last season, was neutralized.
“Their stars were below par. Lamine seems not he's in good form, possibly because of injury issues