(ESP-ENG) Un comienzo, ¿prometedor? - [Opinión]

Hello friends, good vibes to all.

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With six points from their first two matches, Real Madrid are joint leaders with Villarreal and Barcelona. They haven't conceded a goal yet, but they're the lowest scorer of the three. Obviously, analyzing the results based on just two matches isn't enough, but I do think they haven't produced any interesting things we could talk about. Xabi Alonso is a manager who won't hesitate when it comes to leaving a player out, and that's a good thing because it shows the Spaniard's character and the depth of the dressing room. Yesterday's starting XI against Real Oviedo is a testament to that, with Vinicius and Alexander-Arnold relegated to the bench.

I think finding the ideal or perfect starting XI is a very complicated task because there are some very high-quality players, but as a famous salsa song says, "there's not enough room for so many people." The positive thing about these first matches for Alonso is the confidence he's showing in Güler. Since last season, I've been asking for him to be incorporated into the game due to his quality, and we're finally seeing it. Yesterday, he paired up with the Argentine Mastantuono, and he was truly the best part of the match. I was very surprised by the former River Plate player; offensively, he looked very fit, dynamic, active, creating plays and linking up with the young Turk. I doubt it will be a starting duo, but the first half between this pair of players was very impressive.

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We have to consider that this team is missing two key players in those areas of the pitch: Bellingham and Camavinga, both out due to injury and who are theoretically starters. I think there will be no untouchables this season, and that's perfect because it puts all the players on the same level, fighting for their respective spots. Xabi has been demonstrating this in his matches, from the Club World Cup to these first two La Liga matches. Yesterday, Mbappé started playing at number 9. I'm not saying he shouldn't be given that position, but it's one he's clearly not comfortable in. I think he should learn to play there because of the tactical problems with Vini. But something happened in the second half.

With the introduction of Vinicius and Gonzalo, the Frenchman had to drop back to play as a playmaker, and from there came Madrid's two decisive goals. Until recently, I was one of those who said these two players, the Brazilian and the Frenchman, couldn't play together, but yesterday they proved they could. Perhaps it was because of the opportunities Oviedo provided, but in those minutes, Real Madrid looked much more incisive and focused. If you ask me, I see this Real Madrid as much more solid than last season. They've strengthened their positions with very good players; what's missing is for the system to function smoothly and without any obstacles.

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What's going to happen with Rodrygo? After a long layoff, the striker returned to the starting lineup yesterday amid a wave of rumors that he's leaving the Real Madrid club. Personally, I think the number 11 played very well; his movement around the box, his runs, and his scoring opportunities gave the Whites a strong first half. It would be a real shame if they let go of a player who can be so key and decisive, especially knowing that they don't have many attackers. One of the conclusions I can come to is that, for me, this Real Madrid team should play much better than it has shown so far. There were moments in yesterday's game when I couldn't understand why, with so many quality players on the pitch, they were struggling to create real chances.

And that has been one of this team's problems. It's true that they won 3-0 yesterday, but those shortcomings from last season are still lingering. For me, the team they have and the manager's performance are promising, because Xabi Alonso's performance is known to be very good. The fact that they've conceded zero goals tells us that the defense, last year's big problem, is responding with the new signings. Huijsen, Carreras, Alexander-Arnold, and the recovery of Carvajal are spectacular news for a team that suffered greatly and had to rely on players like Lucas Vázquez. Time will tell if this club's performance is promising, but at least it has the pieces.

Well, that's all for today, everyone. I hope you enjoyed it.
¡Hugs to everyone, see you next time!