UEFA Super Cup: Real Madrid vs Manchester United.

By El Maestro

Over the weekend, several official European fixtures took place with France kicking off their Ligue 1 season and Germany and England playing the annual Super Cup games, which sees last season’s league winner take on the cup winner. However, Tuesday will see arguably the most important and prestigious trophy of the summer take place as reigning Champions League winners Real Madrid take on Europa League winners Manchester United. The game will be played on Tuesday at 2:45 EST in the Philip II Arena in Skopje, Macedonia.

On paper, it’s no secret that Real Madrid are the favorites. They have a better overall team and have only gotten stronger during the summer. Despite losing some important players from last season, Madrid replace them with some of the best young and upcoming talents in the world. They replace Pepe with 20-year old Jesus Vallejo returning from his loan spell with Eintracht Frankfurt where he helped them reach the German Cup Final. Madrid also found a replacement for Marcelo and Casemiro signing Theo Hernandez from city rivals Atletico Madrid and bring back Marcos Llorente, who both helped Alaves reach the Copa del Rey Final last season during their loan spell with the Basque side. In addition, the club replaces James with a more natural midfielder in Dani Ceballos from Real Betis, who was arguably Spain’s best midfielder during this summer’s U-21 Euro Cup.

Madrid did lose some goals with the departures of Alvaro Morata and James Rodriguez, but they still have the BBC (Benzema, Bale, and Cristiano) up top and can also rely on Asensio, Lucas Vazquez, and Isco for additional goals. Initially, it was expected that Ronaldo wouldn’t take part in the final, but there may be a twist in the tale after Zidane’s pre-match press conference.

Zidane:

“The fact he has come with us means he is ready to play, but we’ll see tomorrow if he does.”

That being said, Manchester United will not be a cakewalk for Real Madrid. United may still be in a rebuilding phase, but that still doesn’t mean that they are a bad side. They’ve made some important signings over the summer with the additions of center back Victor Lindelöf, Romelu Lukaku at striker to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Nemanja Matić as United’s new defensive midfielder. That’s adding to a team that already has De Get in goal, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Ander Herrera, and Paul Pogba. 

The one upside Manchester United have over Real Madrid is that they have a better manager and one that is familiar to all Madridistas: Jose Mourinho. One of the top 5 managers in the world and a master tactician. It will be a real test for Zidane as tactics hasn’t exactly been his strong suit, despite winning all he’s won. That being said, Mourinho vs Zidane will also be a matchup of master vs apprentice. Even though Zidane worked as an assistant coach only under Carlo Ancelotti, he did work in some capacity with Mourinho during the his time in the Spanish capital.

History:

Though if Manchester United are looking for some motivation, it would be best to avoid the books because history in not on their side. In 5 two-legged European matchups, Manchester United have only been able to knock out Real Madrid once, which was back in 1968. Real Madrid eliminated United in the European Cup/Champions League editions of 1956/1957, 1999/2000, 2002/2003, and 2012/2013. Madrid have also left some iconic moments against “The Red Devils”, such as Cristiano Ronaldo’s decisive game winning goal in against his former side, Figo’s stunning golazo in 2003, Brazilian Ronaldo’s hat-trick at Old Trafford, and a dominant 2-3 victory in the “Theater of Dreams” that saw Fernando Redondo’s magisterial taconazo.

One Game Winner Take All:

With that said, the difference with tonight’s game is that it’s a one game winner take all matchup and anything can happen. It will be thrilling to see Real Madrid and their new look as they prepare to begin the La Liga season. However, what I’m most excited about is Zidane going up against Mourinho and seeing how he manages the game with ‘The Special One’ on the other bench. We’ll find out soon enough.

HALA MADRID Y NADA MAS!

€80 Million For Alvaro Morata!!!!

By El Maestro

On Wednesday, Real Madrid confirmed the transfer of Alvaro Morata to Chelsea FC. Morata will replace Diego Costa as the club’s leading striker with the Spanish-Brazilian forward not being included in Antonio Conte’s plans for the upcoming season. Although Conte and Morata have not worked together, Conte did spend a summer or two trying to sign the Spanish striker when he was managing Juventus.

Having come up Real Madrid’s La Fabrica academy, Morata played two seasons with the first team where he came off the bench in Madrid’s Champions League Final victories in Lisbon and Cardiff. He also played two seasons for Italian giants Juventus where he started and scored in the 2015 Champions League Final; as well as scoring twice in the semi-finals against Real Madrid.

That being said, Morata’s transfer leaves €80 Million in Madrid’s bank account. A lot of money for a player that was backup last year to Benzema and in his second season with Juventus after the club signed Mario Mandžukić and Paulo Dybala. I’m not criticizing Chelsea for paying that huge amount because it’s how the market is, especially when 18-year old Kylian Mbappé is being linked with a €120+ million move away from AS Monaco. Regardless, it is yet another piece of business by Florentino Perez.

I don’t know how Florentino does it, but he somehow is able to get these kind of deals done. Just this summer, despite the transfer window still being open and Kylian Mbappé being linked to the club, Real Madrid have made a profit of €55 million from their signings and departures.

Signings:

• The Hernandez – €30 million
• Dani Ceballos – €17 million
• Jesus Vallejo – €5 million

Total Spent – €52 million

Departures:

• James Rodriguez – €10 million (loan fee)
• Mariano Diaz – €8 million
• Diego Llorente – €6 million
• Burgui – €3 million
• Pepe – Free transfer
• Coentrao – Loan
• Alvaro Morato – €80 million

Total Sum – €107 million

Real Madrid will even receive compensation for James Rodriguez at the end of his loan spell, regardless of whether Bayern Munich decide to use the option to buy him or not. Florentino Perez may have haters in the Spanish media, but if there is some he knows to do, it’s how to run a business.

Are Real Madrid Already Better Than Last Season?

By El Maestro

It may seem like a crazy question, especially after a double title winning season and just starting the preseason, but does Real Madrid already have a stronger squad than last season? Let’s look at Madrid’s summer signings and departures up to this point.

Departures:

• Pepe
• James
• Mariano
• Burgui
• Diego Llorente
• Coentrao

Signings and returned loanees:

• Theo Hernandez – Signing
• Dani Ceballos – Signing
• Jesus Vallejo – Signing and returned loanee
• Marcos Llorente – Returned loanee
• Borja Mayoral – Returned loanee

Real Madrid may have lost Pepe to free agency, but they replace him with 20-year old Jesus Vallejo who is already regarded as one of the best young center backs in the world. Having signed from Real Zaragoza in 2015, Vallejo returns from his successful loan spell in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt where he help them reach the German Cup Final. Not to mention he was one of Spain’s best players in this summers U-21 Euro Cup.

Staying in defense, Real Madrid finally get a replacement for Marcelo adding 19-year old Theo Hernandez from city rivals Atletico Madrid. Despite never playing for Atletico, Theo had an outstanding season during his loan stint at Alaves and even attracted interests from other top clubs, like Barcelona and Liverpool. Speaking of replacements and Alaves, youth teamer Marcos Llorente returns from his loan spell to fight for the defensive midfield position with Casemiro. Both Theo and Llorente were regular starters at the Basque club and helped them finish 9th in the La Liga table and reach the Copa del Rey Final.

On the offensive side of the midfield, Real Madrid lose James Rodriguez to Bayern Munich, but replace him with Dani Ceballos from Betis and who was arguably the best player for Spain at the U-21 Euro Cup. The switch in hindsight is actually better for Madrid as they had a traditional midfielder to the team. James did well in the midfield, but he was an attacking midfielder. In fact, for the last two seasons, Madrid’s only backup midfielder was Mateo Kovacic. For those of you thinking about Asensio and Isco, they too are attacking midfielders. With Dani Ceballos, Real Madrid add a young midfielder who is a proper replacement for Modric and Kroos.

Not to mentioned that we’re only midway through the summer transfer period and anything can still happen. While the club had added some key additions, players like Danilo and Morata have strongly been linked away from the club. Not to mention that Borja Mayoral will probably get loaned out again in search of minutes. The Cristiano situation looks to have calmed down in recent weeks and will probably continue with the team, but Madrid need to keep an eye out in the market in case there are any additional departures.

That being said, on paper Real Madrid have arguably a better team than last season. Before, Madrid didn’t have a natural replacements for each player and needed to rely on some people to play multiple positions. This season, however, there is a natural replacement for each player.

2016/2017:

Keylor Navas/Kiko Casilla/Rubén Yáñez

Carvajal/Danilo   Ramos/Pepe   Varane/Nacho   Marcelo/Nacho

Modric/Kovacic   Casemiro/Kovacic   Kroos/James

              Bale/Isco/Lucas Vazquez   Benzema/Morata/Mariano   Cristiano/Asensio

2017/2018:                                                                                                                       * Uncertain

Keylor Navas/Kiko Casilla/Rubén Yáñez

Carvajal/Danilo*   Ramos/Vallejo   Varane/Nacho   Marcelo/Theo 

Modric/Kovacic   Casemiro/Llorente   Kroos/Ceballos

             Bale/Isco/Lucas Vazquez   Benzema/Morata*/Mayoral*   Cristiano/Asensio

 

 

Real Madrid 3 – 0 Atletico Madrid! Almost There!

By El Maestro

Like Gary Neville in his game commentary: UN-BE-LIEVABLE.

What a performance. A 3-0 win, with a hat-trick by CR7, to virtually finish off the tie heading to the return leg next Wednesday in the Vicente Calderon.

There really isn’t much to analyze. Real Madrid dominated Atletico Madrid from top to bottom. Madrid may have won 3-0, but it could have easily finished 7-0. Despite Atletico’s impressive defensive record coming into the series, Madrid shot 7 times on target while the “Colchoneros” only shot once.

It was a near perfect performance by every wearing the Real Madrid shirt. Keylor Navas came up big by stopping Gameiro’s one on one, the defense kept Griezmann and Atletico’s other attacking threats quiet for the 90 minutes. the midfield was outstanding, and CR7 was CR7 as always.

With all the criticism Ronaldo has received this season, it’s worth noting he’s scored 8 goals in Madrid’s last three Champions League fixtures. A hat-trick against Atletico Madrid and 5 total goals against Bayern Munich. At the beginning of the season, Zidane wanted to reduce Cristiano’s minutes early on so he could be in top shape towards the final stretch of the season and it looks like it’s paying off.

Real Madrid almost have two feet in the Champions League Final, but they still need to take the 2nd leg in the Calderon serious. They may have played a fantastic game, but Madrid has also been known for taking their foot off the gas. Realistically, Real Madrid shouldn’t have any major issues in the return leg, but they just need to make sure they do their job to officially book their place in the Champions League Final on in Cardiff.

HALA MADRID! 

 

 

2 Games, 6 Out Of 6

By El Maestro

La Liga is only two weeks in and there is already a lot to talk about, apart from the two front runners being undefeated. Atletico Madrid only have 2 points, Valencia are in last place, Alaves and Leganes have picked up points in each their games, and Las Palmas is surprisingly 1st in the table scoring 9 goals and only conceding 3 (hammering Valencia and Granada in the process). Lots to talk about, but I’m here only to talk about Madrid’s start to La Liga.

It’s only been two games, but Real Madrid has had a great start to La Liga. A fantastic 0-3 victory against Real Sociedad in San Sebastian and a hard fought win in the Bernabeu versus Celta. Many will say they were expected wins, but it’s alway important to start the league campaign on the right foot. In fact, this is only the third time in seven seasons that Madrid’s won it’s opening two fixtures. They say it’s always better to finish a season strong, but every point in a league title race is important whether it’s August or May. If you don’t believe me, we can just turn to last season where we lost the league by one point, dropping 4 points in the first five games of the season. Not saying that’s the only reason Madrid lost, because we also dropped other important points throughout the year, but it shows how important it is to start well a league campaign. But enough about enough about league statistics, let’s talk about our team’s performance.

As I said before, Real Madrid opened the season with an outstanding performance in the north of Spain. Despite injuries to CR7, Pepe, Navas, Modric and Benzema, it only took Bale 73 seconds to open the scoring with a powerful header after a great cross by Carvajal. Bale added a second towards the end and Asensio scored his first La Liga goal wearing the white jersey with a fabulous chip. However, what I really enjoyed was the overall performance by the entire team. Not since Mourinho’s second season had I seen Madrid open a league season with an organized and consistent performance.

Something I can’t say about Madrid home opener a this past weekend. Berizzo came with a great game plan and had his Celta side well organized. Even after falling 1-0 behind with Morata scoring his first Madrid goal, Celta didn’t shy away and stuck to their game plan. Leading to Orellana’s equalizer minutes later. Despite the bad performance, Madrid didn’t panic by going all out in attack (big team going after the small team), kept the the defensive and midfield shape, and managed to grind out a win with a fantastic goal by Toni Kroos. Not a pretty game, but what’s important is that Real Madrid has 6 points out of a possible 6 (tied with Las Palmas and Barcelona).

Player Grades:

Casilla, B+: Hasn’t had much to do, but he’s been solid and consistent. Made some mistakes against Celta, but had good performances in the European Super Cup against Sevilla and the La Liga opener.

Carvajal, A+: Like Casilla, struggled at the weekend, but I’m not going to let that overshadow his good start to the season. I don’t know if he took lessons from Arbeloa this summer, but his defending has improved drastically. Adding already to his important attacking ability as a right back.

Varane & Ramos, A: Both have done well as a partnership. Varane seems to be regaining his old form he had under Mourinho and Ramos hasn’t been red carded yet (we can consider that a miracle).

Marcelo, B-: The weakest link. I’m probably being nice by giving him a B-, but he’s struggled early on. Most of the attacks come through his side and he’s struggled to stay organized. Hopefully he’ll improve after the international break.

Casemiro, A+: Started the season the same way he finished last year. The most underrated player on this team and the key to Madrid’s success last season. With his performances, he’s surely one of the best holding midfielders in the world.

Kroos, A+: He’s had a big influence not just in attack, but helping the team in defense.

Kovacic, A+: I give an A+ not just for his performances, but also for his work ethic and determination. It’s been rumored this entire summer that he was going to be loaned out or sold, but he cut his vacation days short after playing Euro 2016 with Croatia to start the preseason from day one and impress Zidane. His hard work has paid off and Zidane has rewarded him with starts in the Super Cup and league opener.

Morata, A-: I’ll give him an A for effort. He does have a good work rate, but he needs to improve on his finishing.

Bale, A+: Like last season, he stepping up with Cristiano and Benzema still injured.

Asensio, A++: It’s not a mistake nor am I exaggerating. While many youngsters get carried away, he’s come in by working hard in training and not saying a word. He’s been able to manage the pressure that comes with Real Madrid and has repaid Zidane’s confidence in him with two world class goals. I’m enjoying his performances and hopefully he won’t let the media attention get to his head.

Modric, A-: He’s only played one game, but he looked like his usual self. Let’s hope he avoids any injuries during the international fixtures.

Reserve Players: There have only been four players that have come on as substitutions. They all get passing grades, but just some key points about them.

James: Has done very well when he’s come on and seems to be getting back to his old self. Don’t be surprise if Zidane starts him after the break.

Lucas: Hasn’t changed since last season. Doesn’t complain, consistent when he comes on, good in attack and defense, and always hard working. Traits that all Real Madrid fans enjoy seeing.

Isco: He’s becoming more direct and not stalling the play like he use to during his first two seasons.

Mariano: He played less than 20 minutes against Celta, but he’s showing great hunger and desire that every youth teamer needs. He’s taken advantage of his opportunities during the preseason, scored 2 goals, and has even shown better movements on the field than Morata. Now the question is whether he can do in the regular season and the minutes he will play.

Now time for the international break. Let’s hope no one gets injured and the team doesn’t lose its form when La Liga kicks up again in two weeks.

HALA MADRID! 

 

Benitez Team 2015/2016

By El Maestro

On Friday, Real Madrid returned to the Spanish capital after their preseason tour in Australia and China, which included four games split between the two countries. Despite winning 3 games and only losing 1, I have no intentions of writing an analysis of those fixtures. These early friendlies are usually slow paced and most teams don’t usually hit their strides until late August (even though the team looked good during the tour). If anything, I may (MAY!) consider doing an analysis after the Audi Cup in Munich next week. For now, my only concerns are the arrivals and departures to this team, which has me a little worried. Apart from the thrilling departure of Casillas, the only players who’ve left the club have been Sami Khedira (free transfer) and Chicharito (loan deal expired). On the flip side, Danilo, Kiko Casilla, Lucas Vazquez, and youngsters Marco Asensio and Jesus Vallejo have been Madrid’s only signings (Vallejo will stay at Zaragoza this season on loan). The club also recuperated Denis Cheryshev and Casemiro (although Madrid had to pay Porto to bring the Brazilian back) from their loan deals. Although Rafa Benitez has his full squad now with James officially joining the team in China after his vacation, the squad is still far from being complete and a lot of uncertainty surrounds the club with potential transfers.

Will Ramos stay or go (more than likely will stay)? Is De Gea coming? Is there going to be another signing in midfield and/or at striker? Is Coentrao leaving? What’s going to happen with the likes of Illarramendi, Lucas Silva, Cheryshev, Jese, Odegaard, and Marco Asensio? Will other signings have to be made?

Now that the team is back home, these questions could start finally being answered. Lucas Silva and Marco Asensio will probably be the first players to head out (both on loan). Madrid already has 4 non-European players (James, Danilo, Casemiro, and Lucas Silva) and a team cannot have more than 3; making Lucas Silva the odd man out. Asensio had a great performance in the U-19 European Championship with Spain (winning the tournament). However, coming from Mallorca in the second division, he’ll most likely be loaned out to a first division side to gain experience and be able to fight for a position next year. After this is taken care of, the other matters will have to be decided by Benitez.

Matters at hand:

Illarramendi: I’m leaving this entirely to Rafa. Illarra is entering his third season and we still have not seen that player that stuck out at Real Sociedad. Big lights, poor play, and lack of confidence have destroyed him, but maybe a new manager can fix that. If he stays, great; if not, then we’ll need to find another midfielder.

Coentrao: All I’m going to say is if he’s going to still have those same “injury” problems as last season, then it’s probably best to sell him.

Cheryshev or Jese……. or both?:  Both play the same position and there may not be room for the two of them. Cheryshev has always been a great player and he showed his skills last season with a fantastic year at Villarreal. Jese was called to be the next ‘big thing’, but a serious injury in 2014 has slowed his progression. Cheryshev has been the one linked away from the Bernabeu, but an idea that has not been considered is loaning Jese out. Loaning the young Canarian to a side where he can play and with a coach that will set him straight could be good for him. Another possibility that has been going around is keeping both of them and having Cheryshev play as left back. His defensive work hasn’t gone unnoticed and wingers do not have big problems adjusting to defensive back (if anything, just ask Juanfran, Jordi Alba, and Juan Bernat).

Odegaard: With Real Madrid Castilla in third division (Second Division B), it may be best to loan him out. At 16 years of age, the good thing about this is that there is no need to rush him. Madrid can loan him out for two or three seasons and have him set to fight for a position by the time he’s 19 (like what Chelsea did with Courtois). For this season, it would be best to loan him to a side where he would feel comfortable and gain confidence (I heard Celtic signed his former coach from Norway; could be a good fit). However, if he stays with Castilla, he has to train with them. Enough of this nonsense that he’s obligated to train five days a week with the first team (supposedly, it’s in his contract).

Arrivals:

Once these matters are taken care of, any other potential signings can start coming. Personally (if the team stays mostly the way it is), I think Madrid only needs another midfielder and a striker, but anything can happen from now to the end of the transfer deadline. Illarra’s future is still not certain, a lot of rumors link Benzema out of Madrid, Ramos could still be on the books to leave, and De Gea’s signing might actually be a possibility this summer. Whatever may happen, I will leave it to Rafa to do what he feels is best for the team.

Yes, I have much more trust in Benitez than I ever did in Ancelotti (more on this later).

¡Hala Madrid!

 

A Great Injustice, but Far from Over

By El Maestro

Although it’s not yet confirmed, Diego Lopez is right now in Italy waiting to sign with AC Milan. He was not included in the 22 man squad that traveled to Cardiff and was interviewed on camera at Barajas Airport saying his goodbyes to Real Madrid as a new chapter begins in his professional career. A huge injustice for him as the only thing he’s been guilty of is being one great professional. Unfortunately, this decision was based simply on economic reasons. Like Florentino said last year in an interview with El Larguero, a player who’s under contract doesn’t leave unless he wants to. Madrid didn’t want to go through the Casilas-Lopez saga in goal for another year, and Diego sadly drew the short stick. Even Villiam Vecchi made it obvious by saying he’s a complete keeper and praising him as one of the best he’s ever worked with. If anyone actually thought this is what Madrid really wanted, they are hugely mistaken. If Florentino and Ancelotti wanted Diego out from the beginning, he would have left before the first day of training. The decision to let Diego Lopez go was because Casillas made it extremely difficult on the club. No team wanted to pay a transfer fee for him, none of the offers (or the offer) met Casillas’ demands and he was willing to rescind his contract only if Madrid paid his remaining three year salary up front. In total, that would have cost almost €24 million plus taxes compared to the €7 million to unload Diego. I personally thank Diego Lopez for his professionalism, positive attitude and respect towards Real Madrid, and I wish him the best. He dealt with a lot of unjust scrutiny and pressure just for being a Mourinho signing, but at least it’s good to see him go to a side that actually wants and appreciates him.

Regardless, this doesn’t mean the goalkeeping situation is over (far from it). In fact, I think there is still a chance Casillas departs the club before the end of this transfer window. A lot will rely on his performance in the European Supercup against Sevilla. Ancelotti doesn’t have the same attitude as Mou, but he has some personality. If Casillas plays like he did in the friendly against Man U, the World Cup and the Champions League Final, the only way I see him playing the Spanish Supercup against Atletico is if Carletto crumples under the pressure of the pro-Casillas propaganda campaign. However, I don’t think he would have to worry about that because not even the press is going to be able to defend Iker’s continuous low form. Especially with Madrid playing a friendly on Saturday against Fiorentina and Keylor Navas showing great enthusiasm in training last week. If, by any chance, Navas is in goal against the ‘Colchonerros’ and in the first league game against Cordoba, that could mark the end of Casillas at Real Madrid.

1. I don’t see how he comes back from this after losing the starting job first to Diego Lopez (experienced la Liga and Champions League keeper) and then to Keylor Navas, who’s only top experience was playing the last World Cup.

2. Iker will not want to go another year on the bench playing only cup games (at least I think he’ll only play that competition).

All this makes me believe that he would want to leave before the end of the transfer market; and the likely replacement would be Kiko Casilla. It’s also because of Kiko’s situation at Espanyol that makes me think something is on the brink. Madrid still has a buyback option that ends this summer and his contract expires in 2015, which he has not renewed. Along with this, I’m not fully convinced Ancelotti even wants him as the backup if he continues the way he’s been. Even if Iker doesn’t depart in this transfer window, I see him leaving either in January or next summer. The way it’s all going, I see one of three things happening after the match in Cardiff:

Option #1: Casillas actually has a good game, which the press blows out of proportion and Carlo will keep him as the starter.

Option #2: Casillas has another terrible performance, Navas takes his place and everything I previously said unfolds one by one.

Option #3: Casillas has a bad game, but Ancelotti refuses to bench him because of the constant pressure.

Hopefully, it won’t be option #3.   

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, inside Florentino’s office…

By El Maestro

Nine days after the World Cup Final, Real Madrid signed and presented Germany international Toni Kroos and the sensation of the last WC James Rodríguez from AS Monaco. These are two outstanding signings that will greatly improve the midfield. In spite of the two titles, Madrid at times lacked creativity in midfield last season. Modric was phenomenal, but Xabi was inconsistent, Isco was average and Illarramendi has shown that he’s not fully ready to take charge of the midfield just yet. Toni Kroos brings youth and experience: only 24-years old, played four seasons and was a consistent starter at Bayern Munich, was on the treble winning side in 2013 with Jupp Heynckes, has a great shot from outside and is now a World Cup winner being one of the key players for Germany. James, on the other hand, will revolutionize both the midfield and the attack. A natural number ’10’ playmaker that plays in the attacking midfielder position, but can also play as a winger and even at striker if needed. He doesn’t have the same experience or success as Kroos, but he’s still earned a lot for a recently turned 23-year old. Made his debut at the age of 16 in Colombia, signed for Argentine club Banfield a year later where he won the league title and transferred to Porto for only €5.1 million at 19 years of age where he won eight titles in his three seasons, which included the quadruple winning campaign in 2010/2011 that included the Europa League title, and was named the best player in the Primeira Liga for the 2011/2012 season. He was then sold to Monaco for €45 million where his 10 goals and 12 assist allowed him to finish the season as the assist leader in the French league and helped Monaco earn a spot in next seasons Champions League edition for the first time since 2004. Not to mention the way he put Colombia on his back in the last World Cup and carried them through the tournament with six goals (named the top goalscorer) and two assists (all without Falcao) only enhances his reputation as a star player. There is some concern that he could be another Ozil (unknown player that exploded in the World Cup). However, James was already a well known player long the World Cup and had even received offers from several top clubs in the past, including Madrid, whereas Ozil was a talented player only known to German football and did not express any interests until after the 2010 World Cup. Regardless, we won’t know how he pans out until the seasons starts, but the sky is the limit for James Rodríguez.

Departures:

Up to date, only two players have left the club: Casemiro on loan to Porto and Morata miraculously sold to Juventus for €20 million with a €30 million buy back option (either Florentino’s a genius or someone slipped something in Andrea Agnelli’s drink). Before new players can come into the club, current players are going to have to depart to make room; beginning with Di Maria. He had a fantastic second half of the season, but his bad attitude is once again becoming a problem. He was not happy with Bale’s signing and even insinuated at one point he only played because he was an expensive buy, had that confrontation in a Copa game with Ancelotti and we all still remember the crotch incident at the beginning of the new year. Fortunately, his improvement in form last season, the fact he was named MVP in the Champions League Final and his good performances in the World Cup means his stock is still high and Madrid can make a huge profit with his departure. The latest rumor is that PSG has increased their offer to €80 million, but Manchester United are still looking to make one last push. Once this is done, the next order of business in Sami Khedira, who has a year remaining on his contract. He’s always been an important player for Madrid and he showed that this summer being another of the key players for Germany, but there has not been any indication that he is going to renew his contract. If this is the case, Madrid is going to have to sell him this summer to cash in, although it won’t be hard to find them since Arsenal and Chelsea have both expressed interest. The problem is if Khedira does leave, Madrid is going to have to go back into the market to sign a defensive midfielder.

The club also has to figure out what to do with Illarramendi and Isco. Illarra looked certain to leave the club this summer on loan, but the uncertainty with Khedira has put a halt on that. On the other hand, Isco looks set to stay (unless something happens with Di Maria) and fight for a starting job with James. Isco did show some flashes of his amazing talent last season, but it took him a while to adjust to the club and the enormous pressure that comes with it. Still, he could have a breakout season if he responds well to the competition in his spot. In Illarramendi’s case, the best thing that can happen is a loan deal. He didn’t have a bad season, but his performance in Dortmund psychologically destroyed him and showed that the Santiago Bernabeu is too big a stage for him right now. With that said, if our expectation is for him to be Xabi Alonso’s future replacement, it has to be a proper loan out to a Premier League team or to a side playing Champions League football (Porto, Monaco, Schalke, Bayer Leverkuson or even Napoli). It will do him very little if he goes back to Real Sociedad or even crosses over to Bilbao. Yes, Athletic is going to play the Champions League next season, but that would still be within his comfort zone playing in the same region he grew up in, less than two hours away from his family and competing in the same league he’s played in since making his debut in 2010. He probably wouldn’t go far in the Champions League with any of the teams mentioned above (or even play it with the English teams he may go to), but at least he’d be getting a new perspective by playing in another league, adapting to that country and getting the feel of European matches.

The Dreaded Goalkeeping Situation:

Lastly, there is the situation we all want to end: Diego or Casillas? I don’t know what will happen, but this issue has to be resolved by the end of the transfer window. I’ll about this more another day, but Real Madrid cannot go through another turmoil of a season because of what happens in goal. The latest report is that  Ancelotti has decided to make Iker the full time starter, Diego Lopez will rescind his contract in the next few days and Madrid will announce the signing of Levante keeper Keylor Navas on Monday; but I’m not buying that for one second. To make it simple, I WILL BELIEVE IT WHEN I SEE IT. When I see Real Madrid officially confirm they have departed ways with Diego, then I will believe. In the meantime, it’s up to Carletto to make that decision. The only thing I can ask of him is to do what he truly thinks is right. If (by any chance) he actually likes Casillas more than Diego then so be it, but because he actually thinks Iker is better. Not because if he lets him go, he’s going to have the press on him and a lot of the fans are going to point the finger at him if they lose. Like I said, I will talk about this more in the upcoming days, but it has to be dealt with.

 

Year in Review

By El Maestro

After a season of much uncertainty, Real Madrid finished the season by accomplishing a double for the first time in almost 20 years, which included the long awaited Décima.

¡SI SI SI, LA DÉCIMA YA ESTA AQUÍ!

Final Recap:

I said before the game if Madrid shows up, they would win. Clearly, that’s not what they did in the 1st half. It took Madrid until the hour mark to finally break through Atletico’s solid defense. I was starting to imagine life in Madrid with Atletico’s victory when Ramos at last used his head for something good to equalize the match in the 93rd minute and send it into extra time. Atletico (fatigued and out of gas) held on until the 110th minute when Di Maria (MVP) sliced through three ‘Colchoneros’ and had his shot stopped by Courtois, only for it to be headed in by Bale to send the white part of Madrid and Xabi Alonso into a frenzy. Then Marcelo walked through Atletico’s tired defense to make it 3-1 and CR7 iced it in the last minute with his penalty and epic celebration to finally bring home la Décima.

2013/2014 Season:

Despite all the success, there is a lot Madrid has to improve on for next season. For starters, there are only a handful of games where Madrid played that beautiful attractive football Ancelotti had promised (Galatasaray, Atletico [Copa], Schalke [1st leg] and Bayern Munich). The rest of them were won either at half speed, not playing until the final whistle or just simply not showing up. The team also showed the lack of discipline I feared at the beginning, which was seen in Dortmund and throughout la Liga. On top of this, Madrid missed the a golden opportunity to win the treble by throwing it away when it was presented on a silver platter. Attitudes that are unacceptable and must be improved by Ancelotti if he wants to take this team to new heights next season.

Signings and Departures: 

It’s also that time of year where all teams look to strengthen their squads for next season. The only players who look certain to leave the club this summer are Jesús Fernández, Casemiro and Morata. Denis Cheryshev, who returns from his loan spell from Sevilla, will more than likely be loaned out again or sold with a buy back option. Other possible departures may include Diego López or Casillas, Pepe, Coentrao, Khedira, Di Maria and/or Benzema. Already, the rumor mill has gone off as usually and several players have been linked to the club. The signings will be important, but Madrid only needs to made 3 or 4, and possibly another if one of the mentioned players leaves over the summer.

Keeper: Although the press has made Diego López’s career at Real Madrid very uncomfortable, it looks like the one who will leave out of the two is Casillas. Many find it unlikely, but the numerous reports that came out after the final in Lisbon about his unhappiness (reported by journalist who have a close relationship with him) makes me believe this could actually happen. A lot of us (including myself) would love to see this drama end and it looks like a keeper has been selected if Casillas leaves.

Kiko Casilla (Espanyol): Had another great season, 1.91 (6’3), came out of La Fabrica (Madrid’s youth system), has a year remaining on his current contract and Madrid has 50% of his rights, which means he can be signed for half price.

However, that dream I had of getting €40 million for Casillas went out the window after his horrific performances in the Champions League Final and the World Cup. Madrid can still sell and get money for his departure, but it may not be even close to €20 million due to his huge decline. Surely someone will express interest, but the questions are who, what league they play in and how much will they offer? Otherwise, we will be dealing with the Diego-Casillas propaganda from the press next season.

Defense: The only position that is well covered and would require someone to leave the club in order for a signing to occur. Mats Hummels and Iñigo Martínez have been linked, but the only players who may depart this summer are Varane or Pepe and Coentrao. If everyone stays, then the defense will be exactly the same as this season.

Midfield: The position that’s probably sparked the rumor mill the most. Players, such as Toni Kroos, Arturo Vidal, Marco Reus and Paul Pogba, have all been mentioned as possible signings. The only midfielder who looks certain to leave is Casemiro, but offers also exist for Khedira and Di Maria. Some teams have been supposedly winning to pay €45 million for Khedira and Di Maria’s stock has sky rocketed after his season was rejuvenated and the MVP performance in Lisbon. Either way, Madrid is going to need another midfielder (or two) with Xabi Alonso turning 33 in November and Illarramendi’s inconsistency this past season.

Forward: The most important position Madrid’s needs to strengthen. CR7, Bale and Benzema had a fantastic season (individually and collectively) and Jese was great until he got hurt in March, but Morata did not cut it. Ancelotti gave it a shot, but it’s clear Morata is not right now the ideal striker for Real Madrid. Jese’s long term injury has also force Madrid to sign another attacking player, such as Griezmann from Real Sociedad.

While this is a possibility, the only question I have circling around my head is what kind of striker should Madrid sign: world class or good second stringer? Luis Suárez, Sergio Agüero and Falcao have popped up, but they would all cost big amounts of money and I don’t know if Ancelotti can juggle four strikers of that magnitude. The other option is to sign a good quality back up that can come off the bench and start when needed. The name that has appeared the most for that role is Fernando Llorente. The upside is that he’s found his feet again at Juventus, scored 16 league goals (18 in total), 1.95 (6’5), knows la Liga and can come at a very good price since the Italian side got him for free and have expressed interest in Morata. The downside is whether he can fit into a quick fast pace system next to ‘La Maquina’ and Bale.

Carletto:

It would be harsh to question Ancelotti, especially after winning us two titles this season. He’s had a grip on this squad and the players seem to get along with him after seven of them interrupted the press conference in Lisbon to celebrate. Regardless, the lack of play this season and the way Madrid threw the league this season shows me that he has not instilled that discipline that every team needs to be successful in the short- and long-term. Also, he might have a better personality than Del Bosque, but he still has the reputation of being a buddy-buddy head coach as his nickname ‘El Pacificador’ given by Marca shows. That style won us la Copa and the Champions League this season, but history has also shown us that these coaches don’t always have the same success in the long-term.

Why?: Because when a coach like this has instant success, players may sometimes not have the same motivation going into the next season and he may fail to find that spark to get his squad to win again. Along with this, players could also get use to not having a coach constantly breathing down their necks, which means they may not train or play to their full potential. Some people think this is not possible, but it does happen and if you don’t believe me, just ask Del Bosque’s 2014 World Cup team.

Hopefully, he’ll prove me wrong and bring us more success next season and for years to come. First thing he has to do is decide what signings Madrid should make to improve the squad for 2014/2015. I don’t think he’ll have to tear his eyes out since he already has the best side in the world, but it’s important he gets it right. Once he does that, his next responsibility will be to make sure this team is hungry and motivated to win it all next year, including la Undécima.

Kaka, close the door on your way out

By El Maestro

“I have a family to feed you know.”

I know I’m more than a week late with this post, but I haven’t had much time to right in the last 12 days, and I really want to express my opinion on Kaka’s four seasons at Real Madrid. Kaka going back to Milan was another name that stood on the last day of the transfer deadline. Personally, I didn’t believe it until I saw him in Milan next to Adriano Galliani posing with the ‘Rossoneri’ jersey. To think five days before I had completely given up hope, but finally the saga is over. He leaves on a free transfer, much criticized by the press to get back at Florentino, but there was nothing else he could do. Kaka was a footballing dinosaur and at least Madrid save €20 million that was owed to him for the next two years.

What to say about Kaka’s stint with Real Madrid? The only person who’s happy is Nicolas Anelka  since the Brazilian probably topped him as the worst signing in our clubs history.

“Thanks Kaka, I owe you one.”

Coming in as a world class footballer, Kaka was also well known for his religious and spiritual background, which he was highly praised for. However, along with his talent disappearing, so did his spiritual way of thinking. If there’s something Kaka will be remember for at Madrid, it’s for making fun of the club that made a big effort to sign him and paid his ridiculously high salary (even when he didn’t deserve him). I’m sure many of you are shocked and want to call me every dirty in the book, but yes Kaka made fun of Madrid. Not with words, but actions. A few events come to mind.

Summer 2010: After his €65 million transfer and a poor first season, it was discovered he had a problem with his knee and doctors advised him to take the off-season to relax, meaning no World Cup. In fact, team doctors told him on several occasions he could seriously aggravate the injury if he played the World Cup. However, Kaka ignored those words and played the FIFA World Cup where his country was KO in the quarter finals, and then had to undergo surgery that kept him out for the next six months.

Summer 2012: I will say this, the 2011-2012 season was Kaka’s best in the white uniform. Mourinho got a good version out of him, but it was no where near the Kaka of old. Despite looking good, he was inconsistent at times and didn’t display that talent in any big games (like against Bayern). It was clear to everyone that Kaka could no longer be on this team if Madrid wanted to win the Champions League. Kaka was told of this and received offers to leave, but he refused for one simple reason: money. He made €10 million a year and the only offers he received were between €4-€6 million, which did not impress him. Mou was forced to find a spot for him and did what he could, but Kaka spend most of the 2012-2013 season on the bench rubbing his €10 million in front of Florentino’s face.

Summer 2013: Real Madrid signed Isco, Illarramendi and Bale to a squad that already had CR7, Di Maria, Xabi Alonso, Modric and Khedira. It was clear he was not going to play much and had no room on this team. There were far better players that could do more in one minute than Kaka in 15 games. However, he was “convinced” he could earn a spot and stayed for the entire preseason. It looked for sure he would continue to rub his salary in all our faces, when suddenly common sense finally hit him and he realized he wasn’t going to play (with the World Cup next summer). The only problem was he publicly asked to leave four days before the end of the transfer window, and with the club already having problems trying to complete the signing of Bale. Thankfully, it was all resolved on the final day. Kaka finally took a pay cut and went back to Milan.

I other words, Kaka put his personal interest first instead of what was best for the team. Of course the World Cup is every footballers dream, and everyone would kill just to play one. However, what people forget is that professional footballers don’t owe themselves to their countries, but to their clubs since they’re the ones who pay their salary. I don’t buy those excuses that the World Cup is played once every four years or that he’s a proud Brazilian patriot. I’m sure Villa wanted to play the Euro last summer with Spain, but he didn’t because he knew he simply couldn’t:

• He hadn’t played a game in six months.
• He would jeopardize the rhythm of play on the field.
• And also wanted to take that time to fully recover from his injury (since he owed himself to Barcelona).

I’m sure Kaka was quite the patriot when he asked Dunga to not call him for the 2007 Copa America because he was tired and wanted to relax. In fact, it’s possible Kaka is no longer the player he is thanks to his arrogance to play the 2010 World Cup, which later resulted in surgery to repair his damaged knee. Obviously, Kaka was only 28 years old when he had it, but knee/leg surgery for any professional footballer is never good, especially if it keeps you out for a long period of time. Some or most don’t go back to being the exact player they were before. Brazilian Ronaldo had some great years after his surgery, but some believe he wasn’t the same Ronaldo before he suffered his terrible injury.

Now what most madridistas will probably remember Kaka for are the money signs in his eyes. Refusing to take a pay cut and rubbing his €10 million in every single madridistas face as he watched from the bench/stands. Yes, €4 million is so little money now a days when some families struggle to even put food on there tables. Not to mention all the extra millions he makes from endorsements and advertisements. On top of that, he decides to finally express his desire to leave days before the transfer deadline. Very humble and noble from a guy who’s sold himself for years as a man of religion.

I will say this though, he didn’t get into any problems with his teammates or coaches in his four seasons with the club, and he wasn’t as problematic a player as others. He always arrived on time for practice, did what he was told, behaved himself appropriately off the field and at least tried to do something when he played (even though he had nothing). He was a big money signing that didn’t work out. For reasons no one exactly knows: the system, the country, the league, the club, the coach, the surgery, the World Cup, himself, etc. Whatever the reasons were, Kaka unfortunately didn’t pan out, but the most important thing is he’s finally out of the club. So before ending this post, I would like to send him out with some parting words.

Best of luck Kaka, enjoy your time with Milan and I hope the door didn’t hit you on your way out of Florentino’s office.

!Arrivederci Kaka!