Real Madrid News
Real Madrid handed triple injury boost ahead of Girona clash
Real Madrid fell to a shocking 3-2 defeat at the hands of RB Leipzig this midweek, which put an end to the club’s unbeaten run.
A major reason behind Real Madrid’s defeat was the absence of several key players including Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema. The in-form star player Federico Valverde was also out while Luka Modric did not feature in the team sheet either.
However, according to Arancha Rodriguez (h/t Madrid Xtra), Real Madrid will be boosted by the return of these three players in the upcoming game against Girona.
Benzema, who was suffering from a knock, will be a major boost for the Whites as they have lacked that experienced presence in the number nine slot. The Frenchman’s return, therefore, could go a long way in adding more potency to Carlo Ancelotti’s unit.
Modric, on the other hand, will be hoping to add more quality in the middle of the park. The veteran Croatian will most likely replace Eduardo Camavinga in the interior midfield slot, adding more technical prowess and creativity in the final third.
However, arguably the biggest boost will be the return of Valverde. The Uruguayan international is currently the most in-form player at Real Madrid, who has already bailed out his team by scoring a few mesmerising goals in La Liga this season.
Valverde’s services could once again be required as Real Madrid look to continue their flawless start to the domestic campaign and maintain their lead over Barcelona at the top of the table.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti might make other changes to the side as well, with David Alaba, for one, tipped to replace Nacho at the heart of the four-man backline. Dani Carvalaj is hoping for a start as well, ahead of Lucas Vazquez at right-back.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
ROBERT ADAMAH
October 28, 2022 at 10:05 am
Need sold striker to replace Benzema Incase injury occur, strong midfielders for substitution and the right back shake anytime Dani Carvalaj is not there. The defenders needs to be more active, have good communication on the field and smart in attacking their opponents.
Frank
October 28, 2022 at 1:51 pm
Good,
Fantastic to see talented players like Benzema, Modric and Valvede back