Real Madrid: Zidane proves rotation still viable option for success
By Najam Arfeen
Could Zidane’s blind faith in his players finally be paying off?
Real Madrid have eclipsed their own benchmarks for silverware under Zinedine Zidane. Their dominant performances, particularly in 2017, were facilitated by the French legend’s calm demeanour and tactically minimalist approach. There was a clear understanding between the players and their coach – and each individual was considered a key part of the puzzle.
However, with the club’s erratic performances in recent months, the squad faced a crisis of confidence. Players like Asensio, Lucas Vazquez, and Kovacic – who were considered invaluable during the course of last season – had struggled to impose themselves. Los Blancos needed Zidane to act, but their coach was adamant that the team’s struggles were psychological.
Based on Madrid’s current upturn in fortunes, he may have been right. The club has won three consecutive league encounters for the first time this season – and it has been largely due to the aforementioned emphasis on rotation. Key members of the line-up have been rested to preserve energy, allowing those waiting on the fringes to thrive.
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The driving force behind this improvement has arguably been the club’s first-leg victory over PSG. A big result at the Bernabéu was long overdue for Real Madrid, and it’s helping the team rediscover a sense of self-assurance.
Moreover, it’s contributing to the club’s revival on the domestic front – albeit with no realistic chance of achieving anything better than 2nd place.
Of course, defensive problems continue for Zidane and his men. The club have conceded 7 goals in the last 4 games – and despite coming out victorious in each duel, it could cost them dearly as the season approaches its climax.
Ideally, an extended string of positive results will help reinforce the rearguard, but a second look at the team’s tactical set-up may provide a more reliable solution.
Next: Real Madrid upstage Betis
Either way, Real Madrid are finding their feet again, and while they may not be able to recreate the highs of 2016/17, there is still plenty to ponder for their rivals. PSG are likely to be the most concerned as Los Blancos have pushed them to the brink of Champions League elimination. A composed performance in the second-leg will see Zidane move one step closer to a third European triumph – and he knows that a fresh set of players will make such an unlikely feat just a little less daunting…