Real Madrid News
‘Started with Kroos’ departure’ — Former Real Madrid player explains the club’s current crisis
Real Madrid’s ongoing crisis has become a topic of conversation far beyond the borders of Spain, with even players based in Saudi Arabia being quizzed about the situation at the Bernabeu.
Oscar Rodriguez, a former La Fabrica graduate who represented Real Madrid’s first team between 2018 and 2020, is currently plying his trade at Al Diraiyah in Saudi Arabia.
In a recent interview with Diario AS, he did not hold back when asked about what had gone wrong at his former club.
Kroos’ exit at the root of everything
According to Rodriguez, the departure of Toni Kroos marked the moment Real Madrid lost their compass, and the club has been struggling to find direction ever since.
“It’s just a matter of streaks, but for me, Kroos’ departure meant the team lost its direction, and it’s impossible to replace someone like that.
“Modric’s departure and those of other players were also very noticeable, although I’ve always had a soft spot for the German,” he said.
On the idea of Kroos returning to Real Madrid, Rodriguez was enthusiastic.
“That would be magnificent. As a Real Madrid fan, I would love it. With his football knowledge and understanding of the game, he would surely contribute a great deal technically.”
Crisis making waves in Saudi Arabia
Rodriguez also confirmed that Real Madrid’s turbulent season has not gone unnoticed in the Middle East.
“Everyone’s talking about Real Madrid. My colleagues ask me about the sporting chaos, the fights, the reasons for the crisis. It’s surprising that a giant like this is in such a state,” he said.
Finally, he also spoke warmly of the teammates who shaped him during his time at the club, singling out Kroos above all others.
“Modric, Isco, and Marcelo were impressive, but I’d have to say Kroos. His command of every game situation and his vision were incredible. He always controlled the tempo; it was like he had a computer in his brain,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
