Los Blancos Impressive but Vinicius Junior Tensions Grow – Key Clasico Takeaways
It was nearly a flawless performance from Xabi Alonso's squad, who beat Barca two goals to one in El Clasico and extend their lead at the summit of the Spanish league with a five-point cushion.
Bellingham notched his first league goal and key pass this campaign following a tough period recovering from shoulder surgery.
The French forward showed his deadly form in attack, while Alonso's tactics in his inaugural Clasico as coach proved perfectly.
Yet the Brazilian's situation emerged again another time.
Dissatisfied at coming off, Vinicius protested while walking straight past Xabi Alonso and headed off the pitch, before returning on the sidelines after a short while.
Manager's Approach Gets Results for the Midfielder
For a debut Clasico, Alonso did well, especially since the majority of Real's recent coaches were defeated in their debut league meeting with Barca.
Following the relaxed method of Carlo Ancelotti fell short in the previous campaign, Alonso's positional game-model produced a significant outcome.
A specialist commented, The strategy worked brilliantly. The home side were very good, and the visitors struggled due to the home team's approach.”
“Without the ball, they pushed up for as long as they could, and if they were beaten, they retreated in a structured manner, everybody including Vinicius.”
“They defended in two layers with a gap of 5-10 meters. Barca could not find a way through.”
The tactical change seems beneficial for Bellingham, who last season was essentially asked to cover multiple roles in the center and additional duties.
In the lineup the 22-year-old played on the right, but in practice he had the freedom to come inside and either assist the attack or crash the penalty area.
Balague continued, With Eduardo Camavinga in the middle, it brings more dynamism and better ability to block the passing lanes.”
This led to the team to put Bellingham on the right-hand side. Certainly he would have been asked to keep an eye on the forward's positioning on the ball and found openings, connecting with him a few times.”
He was told to enter the area and position himself near the outskirts of the area, where he is very dangerous. Additionally, he moved centrally to close the inside channels and make Barcelona's life tough.”
Vinicius Tensions Revealed
It's clear that supporters adore Vinicius, his chant rang out repeatedly by a fervent Madrid fans.
But multiple numerous stories lately that the club might think about allowing his departure if the right offer were to come in.
He has one year remaining on his deal come the end of the season, but discussions on a renewal are at a standstill.
His response after coming off late in the game indicated issues. After the full-time whistle, he had to be restrained as he tried to approach the Barcelona player.
Balague commented, He will face backlash for good reason, as it demonstrated disrespect for the substitute taking his place.”
“But since being a kid, he has existed amid adversity, and he believes that everyone is against him.”
“That mentality is difficult to shake, particularly since you consider yourself close to being the top star, and the organization redirects attention to Mbappe as the main man.”
“This season he's felt that the organization isn't protecting him. Reports suggest, possibly leaked by the club, or not denied by the club, that they might accept if someone paid a quarter-billion euros for him and sell him.”
“He feels all that, and after Alonso subbed him – fairly, since he wasn't defending as required – to him he questions why always me?.”
“It will be difficult to build a bridge with the club and the player now.”
Barca's Approach “Falls Apart”
Having triumphed in all four of last season's Clasicos, Sunday's performance represented their uncertain beginning of the season.
Absences have deprived Hansi Flick of important stars including the Brazilian winger, Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, and the tactical setup isn't working in their absence.
The expert commented, The squad seems are slightly off when not in possession, with less desire to win it back, less aggressive to get the possession back.”
“It's easier to create chances against them. If the defensive line is flawed, as it wasn't Mbappe's strike because Alejandro Balde failed to step up, they receive little support by the midfield and forwards failing to press the ball-carrier as expected.”
Yamal, the main threat in previous meetings, was neutralized.
The big names did not perform well. The youngster seems not in top condition, possibly because of injury issues