REAL MADRID
Aiming for four in a row
With a cast of world-beaters at their disposal, a happy knack of keeping their heads in tight spots and also being able to deliver when collectively below par, Real have every reason to believe a fourth straight Champions League is a realistic objective. Their biggest problem is they are in the middle of a transition period with a changing of the old guard.
Following the resignation in late May of Zinedine Zidane, his successor Julen Lopetegui has big coaching boots to fill. And just to make his job even harder he will have to do without Cristiano Ronaldo, who left for Juventus.
There’s much to be said for the argument that Ronaldo’s departure leaves a void which cannot be filled. During nine glorious seasons at the Bernabeu he was their Champions League life-insurance policy, scoring 101 goals.
However, Lopetegui and Real should be a good philosophical fit. He favours a stylish and expansive attacking game, with an approach that is based on slick circulation of the ball and plenty of directness. His side is likely to play with far more science and substance than Real teams of the past few seasons, putting greater emphasis on teamwork, increased tactical flexibility and a high press.
What sort of impact can be expected from Real’s summer signings?
Thibaut Courtois represents a major upgrade in goal, while right-back Alvaro Odriozola looks set for an intense battle for a starting slot with Dani Carvajal. Highly impressive in pre-season, 18-yearold Vinicius Junior could turn out to be a very useful impact sub.
What is the key to Lopetegui’s management style?
Communication. A believer in honest exchanges with all members of the squad, not just the first-team seniors, he has already worked with many of Real’s players during his time in charge of various Spanish representative sides.
Is there a surprise up his sleeve?
Now that Ronaldo is history, Lopetegui may be tempted to employ a “false nine”, with versatile Marco Asensio fitting that hybrid bill perfectly.