Real Madrid, the most successful club in European football history, has always been known for its exceptional defensive prowess. However, with the rise of mid-tier clubs like Inter Milan, Juventus, and Napoli, Real Madrid's defense has become increasingly vulnerable. In this article, we will explore why Real Madrid's defensive weakness is so pronounced, and how it affects their overall performance.
The Defenses' Weakness:
One of the biggest weaknesses of Real Madrid's defensive setup is that they rely heavily on the back four. The number of defenders at Real Madrid is usually higher than any other team in Europe. This can lead to a high number of unmarked players who can easily create space for attackers. Additionally, the lack of physicality at the back means that there are more chances of errors occurring within the defensive line, which can lead to conceding goals.
Another problem is that Real Madrid does not have a strong midfield. The midfield is where the majority of Real Madrid's attacking plays take place, but it lacks the size and strength to stop opponents from scoring. This can make it difficult for Real Madrid to keep their opponents at bay.
Midfielders like Isco, Benzema, and Koke are all highly regarded by many experts in the sport. However, they do not possess the physicality and intelligence required to be effective in the defensive role. They also tend to be very fast, which can make them easy targets for attackers.
The Result:
The defensive weaknesses of Real Madrid have had a significant impact on their overall performance. With their number of defenders being higher than any other team in Europe, Real Madrid's ability to defend effectively has been limited. The midfield's lack of size and strength has made it difficult for Real Madrid to contain opponents, and the lack of physicality has made it harder for Real Madrid to break down opposition defenses.
Furthermore, Real Madrid's reliance on the back four makes it difficult for Real Madrid to switch up their defensive formations or play offensively when needed. This can make it hard for Real Madrid to adapt to changing circumstances and improve their performance.
In conclusion, Real Madrid's defensive weakness is one of the reasons why they have struggled in recent years. With their number of defenders being higher than any other team in Europe, Real Madrid's ability to defend effectively has been limited. The midfield's lack of size and strength has made it difficult for Real Madrid to contain opponents, and the lack of physicality has made it harder for Real Madrid to break down opposition defenses. Real Madrid's reliance on the back four also makes it difficult for Real Madrid to switch up their defensive formations or play offensively when needed.