The Evolution of Real Madrid’s Attack
Real Madrid’s tactical approach has undergone a significant transformation this season. While they have always been known for their relentless pursuit of goals, the club is now less inclined to rely on deep crosses into the box. This shift is a result of both the inconsistent performances of their full-backs and the changes in their forward line, which took place last summer. The departure of Joselu Mato, who had an incredibly successful year on loan, marked a turning point. Joselu, with his impressive aerial ability, provided a different weapon for Carlo Ancelotti, often setting up Jude Bellingham with his movement. However, with the arrival of Endrick Felipe and Kylian Mbappe, two players who are not particularly tall or gifted in the air, the team’s attacking strategy has adapted to suit their strengths.
Joselu Mato: A Missed Aerial Threat
Joselu Mato’s loan performance was nothing short of spectacular. Coming off the bench, he managed to score 17 goals and provide 3 assists, showcasing his ability to make a significant impact in the final third. His presence as an aerial threat was particularly valuable, often drawing defenders and creating space for other forwards. Joselu’s departure has left a void in Real Madrid’s attacking options, and his absence is particularly noticeable in the decline of crosses from deeper positions. Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility was greatly enhanced by Joselu’s ability to diversify the team’s attack, and his return to the starting lineup is something the club has yet to fully replace.
Endrick Felipe and Kylian Mbappe: A New Era
The addition of Endrick Felipe and Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid’s forward line has brought a new dynamic to the team. Both players are known for their speed, agility, and ground-based play, but neither excel in the air. Endrick, despite his young age, has already shown flashes of brilliance, while Mbappe’s track record of high-scoring performances speaks for itself. This duo has forced the team to adapt their attacking strategies to focus more on low, precise passes and quick movements inside the box. The result is a more diversified and fluid attack, but one that lacks the traditional aerial threat that Real Madrid has historically relied upon.
Mbappe’s Aerial Phobia
Kylian Mbappe’s reluctance to engage in aerial duels is a well-documented aspect of his game. According to Diario AS, Mbappe’s fear of headers stems from two significant concussions he suffered early in his Ligue 1 career while playing for AS Monaco in 2016. The first concussion left him cautious, but when a similar incident occurred a year and a half later, Mbappe’s fear of heading the ball intensified. This phobia is further compounded by his experience during Euro 2024, where he played with a protective mask after breaking his nose. The mask not only inhibited his breathing but also caused him considerable discomfort. Despite these challenges, Mbappe has still managed to score 23 goals in 35 games this season, demonstrating that his aerial shortcomings have not significantly impacted his overall performance.
The Impact on Team Tactics
The absence of an aerial threat in Real Madrid’s forward line has led to a more ground-based approach. Ancelotti and his coaching staff have had to reevaluate their tactics to ensure that the team remains effective in front of goal. This has involved creating more opportunities for ground-level plays, such as through balls and cut-backs, that can exploit the speed and technical skills of Endrick and Mbappe. The full-backs have also had to adjust, providing more support from the wings and creating openings for the forwards to run into. While this new strategy is still evolving, it has already shown promise in delivering the results the club expects.
Adapting to the Future
Real Madrid’s shift away from deep crosses and towards a more ground-based attack reflects a broader trend in modern football. Teams are increasingly favoring quick, precise movements over traditional long balls and aerial duels. For Real Madrid, this means leveraging the unique attributes of their new forward line to maintain their competitive edge. Both Endrick Felipe and Kylian Mbappe are young, talented, and have the potential to grow into some of the best strikers in the world. As they continue to develop, the team will find new ways to integrate them into a more nuanced and effective attacking strategy. The future looks bright for Los Blancos, as they embrace this tactical evolution and build a team that is both versatile and formidable.
