Real Madrid’s Draw Against Elche: More Questions Than Answers?

Real Madrid’s recent 2-2 stalemate against Elche raises some critical questions about the team’s current trajectory. A winless streak stretching to three games isn’t exactly the form expected from a club of Real Madrid’s stature. Elche, playing at home, proved a tough nut to crack, twice taking the lead and forcing Real Madrid to claw back both times. It seems like Real Madrid needed some set-piece heroics from Dean Huijsen and Jude Bellingham to salvage a point. But beneath the surface, some deeper issues are apparent.

Defensive Frailties Exposed

The absence of key defenders like Carvajal, Militão, Rüdiger, and Alaba forced Xabi Alonso into a tactical reshuffle. Deploying a back three, an unusual formation given the available personnel, felt like a gamble borne out of necessity. The idea was likely to provide cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his first start in a while, but the execution left something to be desired. Did this makeshift defense really shore things up? The two goals conceded certainly suggest otherwise. Perhaps, a more conservative approach would have yielded better results. It is a challenge that Alonso faces now.

Elche’s Home Fortress Holds Firm

Elche’s home form has been surprisingly impressive this season, remaining unbeaten at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero until now. It’s worth noting that they had conceded very few goals on their own patch before this match. Real Madrid certainly felt the pressure from the Elche supporters on a chilly Sunday night. Elche’s defensive structure proved difficult to penetrate, with Real Madrid only managing to score from set-pieces. Yet, even those goals were shrouded in controversy, with VAR decisions sparking debate about possible handball and a foul on the goalkeeper. Was it a case of luck evening itself out? Possibly. But Real Madrid can’t rely on contentious calls to secure points.

Pressure Mounts on Xabi Alonso

Rumors of locker room tension and tactical disagreements have swirled around Xabi Alonso in recent weeks. A strong showing against Elche was essential to quell the noise. However, the draw only amplifies the scrutiny. Some observers point to the omission of players like Vinícius Júnior and Camavinga from the starting lineup as evidence of a deeper rift. Others see it as prioritizing the upcoming Champions League fixture. Whatever the reason, Alonso now faces a must-win situation against Olympiacos. How he handles the pressure will be crucial. This challenge cannot be ignored.

Back Three: A Flawed Experiment?

The decision to implement a back three formation raised eyebrows. It might be too early to judge, especially considering the depleted squad. The team’s width and space, particularly with Fran García and Trent Alexander-Arnold, didn’t translate into consistent attacking threats. The play frequently became congested in the center, and distribution was slow. It seems more work is needed to make this system effective. Adjustments in approach and personnel are likely necessary. If Alonso persists with this formation, he might create even more problems.

Rodrygo’s Goal Drought: A Cause for Concern

Rodrygo Goes’s goalless streak has now reached 29 games, equaling a dubious record. He had opportunities against Elche, but his finishing was lacking. He spoke about wanting to prove himself to the coach, but words ring hollow without goals. Eight months without finding the net is a long time for a Real Madrid forward. Could a change of position or a different role help him rediscover his scoring touch? That is what we need to know.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: A Glimmer of Hope?

Despite the disappointing result, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance offered some encouragement. Making his first start after injury, he showcased glimpses of his potential. He created several chances and demonstrated his passing range. The Englishman needs time to settle in and build fitness. Still, his display suggests he could become a valuable asset. Maybe Fede Valverde won’t be needed at right-back for much longer.

The Road Ahead

The draw against Elche underscores the challenges facing Real Madrid. Defensive vulnerabilities, attacking inconsistency, and questions surrounding the manager all need to be addressed. While individual performances offer glimmers of hope, a collective improvement is essential to turn the season around. The Champions League match against Olympiacos now carries even more weight. It’s a chance for Real Madrid to silence the critics and demonstrate their true potential. But, honestly, it feels like the solutions will require more than just tactical tweaks; a real shift in mentality might be necessary. This Real Madrid squad has the talent. Now, they need to rediscover their hunger. It is easier said than done.

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Keywords: Real Madrid Elche draw, Real Madrid defensive frailties, Xabi Alonso pressure, Rodrygo goal drought, Trent Alexander-Arnold performance, Elche home form, Real Madrid tactics, Real Madrid Champions League