The manner of defeat Real Madrid suffered to Atlético Madrid (3-1) outlines the lack of a focal point at the top of the pitch, a void that had to be filled in the summer.
Real Madrid had anticipated Karim Benzema’s presence for the 2023-24 season with a one-year contract extension in mind. To their surprise, Benzema chose a different path, signing a lucrative £172 million-per-year deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. This sudden departure left Madrid without a primary goalscorer, and despite having ample time to address this issue during the summer transfer window, Madrid adhered to their initial plans, disregarding the significant void created by Benzema’s exit.
They brought in Joselu on loan as a backup forward, while Vinícius Junior and Rodrygo were forced to take up more central roles, although their strengths lie in the wide areas. The responsibility of scoring goals has primarily fallen on midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Relying on Bellingham
While Bellingham has admirably carried this burden through the early weeks of the campaign, the recent derby defeat has outlined the urgent need for additional support from the players ahead of him if Madrid intend to contend for trophies this season.
Los Blancos should have done everything in their power to bring Kylian Mbappé to the Santiago Bernabéu in the summer. Now, they lack a player that is guaranteed to get 25+ goals in all competitions.
Jake Staniland | GSFN
