Following Real Madrid`s defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu, criticism was expected. Some argue that Florentino Perez disrupted a promising Real Madrid by adding unnecessary star power, hindering the team`s development. Arsenal, a well-organized team reminiscent of past European champions, exposed flaws in Madrid, drawing comparisons to Perez`s earlier era where flashy signings overshadowed fundamental team needs.
However, the “Galactico” concept isn`t failing; it needs refinement. Real Madrid`s primary issue this season isn`t the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, but the failure to adequately replace Toni Kroos`s midfield presence.
Federico Valverde, despite wearing the number 8 jersey and delivering strong performances throughout the season, isn`t a like-for-like replacement. Even in the defeat, Valverde was a standout performer, playing out of position at right-back in the first leg and leading Madrid`s possession efforts at the Bernabeu. He topped the charts for touches, passes attempted, and ball progression. Yet, this role doesn`t perfectly suit his skillset.
Real Madrid lacked a deep-lying playmaker against Arsenal, someone capable of identifying and exploiting subtle openings in Arsenal`s defensive block with precise passes. Think of Kroos against Bayern Munich last season, where his progressive passing unlocked their defense and propelled Madrid into the final third.
In contrast, Madrid`s attack against Arsenal appeared stagnant and predictable. Luka Modric, while still capable of moments of brilliance, showed his age in the first leg, lacking the athleticism required to consistently unlock defenses.
Without a deep tempo-setter, Madrid`s approach relied on slow build-up play, often directed to the left flank where Vinicius Junior was contained by Jurrien Timber. The right flank offered little improvement. Pass maps illustrate Madrid`s struggles to find teammates in central areas, crucial for effective attacks. While Declan Rice and Thomas Partey`s defensive work played a role, top Madrid teams are known for breaking down even the most organized defenses.
Madrid needed a player who dictates play, whose passing ability compels teammates to make runs, confident the ball will reach them. A player with exceptional vision and passing range. A player like Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Acquiring Alexander-Arnold could have addressed Madrid`s over-reliance on crosses against Arsenal. Their 43 crosses, the most since November 2018, were often aimless against Arsenal`s defenders. Alexander-Arnold`s consistent presence could reduce dependence on crosses and hopeful long shots. A progressive passer in midfield would provide Vinicius and Mbappe with the quick, incisive passes they need, allowing them to attack before defenses are fully set.
While Alexander-Arnold`s potential arrival wouldn`t solve all of Madrid`s problems and might introduce new challenges, his attacking contributions outweigh his often-criticized defensive weaknesses. Adjustments would be needed to integrate him, potentially taking time to fully realize his impact.
Ultimately, the defeat to Arsenal underscored the importance of team organization and diligence, qualities Madrid possessed last season. Reclaiming their position at the European summit requires a return to this mentality. Addressing their midfield creativity gap is crucial, and Alexander-Arnold appears to be an ideal solution.
