Unleashing Fede Valverde's Potential

After last week's bout against Al Hilal, where Fede Valverde was confined to a defensive midfielder role, it sparked a debate about his long-term fit with the team. But what unfolded next was nothing short of remarkable. He was deployed as a right winger against Pachuca, moved to a two-way pivot against Salzburg, and finally showcased his skills as an advanced #8 against Juventus.

Xabi Alonso has clearly recognized Valverde's versatility, utilizing him in various positions that fit the team’s strategy on the fly. In this latest encounter, Fede was unleashed, given the freedom to exploit spaces and create chaos in Juventus's box, leading to a surge in his performance metrics. He hit a career high for touches in the box, made the most key passes in three years, and tripled his average shot output.

No matter where he plays—right back, wing, or midfield—Fede Valverde has become a cornerstone for Real Madrid. The more he’s freed from positional restraints, the greater his impact.

The Enigma of Trent Alexander-Arnold

The Trent Alexander-Arnold saga remains an intriguing one, filled with highs and lows. While he may leave gaps defensively, particularly in transition, his offensive potential is undeniable. We’ve witnessed glimpses of his brilliance—pinpoint passes and clever assists that could turn the tide of a game.

Xabi Alonso commented on the need for teamwork around Trent, emphasizing that he thrives when supported rather than isolated. Much like the great David Beckham, Trent’s strength lies not in beating defenders one-on-one, but in creating opportunities when surrounded by teammates.

Tactical Evolution: A Work in Progress

The initial 3-5-2 formation didn’t yield the results Xabi hoped for against Juventus. Thankfully, he quickly recognized the need for change, moving Tchouameni higher up the pitch. Alonso's reactive approach brings a refreshing dynamism to the team, though it may lead to fatigue from constant adjustments.

Despite the overall success, the gaps in the midfield and defense are concerning. If opportunities missed by Juventus had been capitalized on, Real Madrid could have found themselves in serious trouble early on.

A New Era in Set Pieces?

The sight of Lucas Vazquez taking crucial set pieces has been a notorious reminder of previous struggles. However, with Trent and Arda taking charge of these opportunities, coupled with the added height from players like Huijsen and Rudiger, Real Madrid finally looks like a formidable threat during dead balls. This new edge could translate into vital points as the season progresses.