Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona has considerably changed the mood surrounding Jose Mourinho’s side.
Los Blancos arrived at the Spotify Camp Nou under pressure, but their disciplined performance helped reduce Barcelona’s lead in La Liga to just three points.
More importantly, the manner of the victory offered a reminder that Los Blancos are far more difficult to beat when they play as a team.
Now, former Madrid goalkeeper Santi Canizares believes that collective discipline was the defining difference in Sunday’s Clasico.
Canizares questions the partnership between Mbappe and Vinicius
Speaking on COPE (h/t SPORT), Canizares raised serious questions about the compatibility of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.
He argued that the two attackers cannot play together in important matches because their lack of defensive involvement negatively influences their team-mates.
“That makes Bellingham work half as much, and it leaves both of them disconnected up front,” he explained.
Real Madrid are playing better without Vinicius Jr. in the team. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
The former goalkeeper believes Real Madrid can accommodate one attacker who contributes less defensively, but having two does not make sense.
“If you don’t run, I won’t run either,” he said, describing the mentality that develops when important players avoid defensive responsibilities.
Canizares also offered a very firm and bold solution, stating: “Vinicius can only play instead of Mbappe.”
Vinicius’ suspension has handed Madrid a solution going forward
Canizares also praised Real Madrid’s organisation against Barcelona. He highlighted the performances of the entire starting defensive line.
“When Real Madrid play like this, running, working, dropping back, staying together, keeping the team narrow and compact, they are a competitive team,” he explained.
Canizares may have spoken his mind, but there is an increasing feeling among the Madrid fanbase that the team works better with Yan Diomande on the left.
That, coupled with the poor form of Vinicius, leaves Mourinho with an incredibly difficult decision to make.
Jose Mourinho needs to find a system that allows Mbappe to coexist with Vinicius. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
In the absence of Vinicius, Real Madrid look more balanced, but as a manager, the Portuguese tactician will want to find a system that allows both of them to thrive.
The real challenge would be distributing the defensive responsibilities between the two players in games they start together.
Their attacking quality and ability to turn a game on its head remain invaluable, and Real Madrid would be better off having both of them succeed.
Sunday’s victory demonstrates the importance of a collective effort and playing as a team. At the Camp Nou, each player gave everything for the badge on the pitch.
That is the kind of mentality Mourinho would appreciate, and he will hope that the performances continue in the coming weeks.