Star signing Jude Bellingham leads Madrid to their first victory
Real Madrid has kicked off their 2023 league season with a bang, defeating Athletico de Bilbao in San Mames. The 'merengues' now lead the table, thanks to brilliant performances from Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes. Keep an eye out for this youthful team!
After completing a mediocre pre-season over in the United States, Carlo Ancelotti rallied the team to ensure a positive start to the season.
Real Madrid is experiencing a generational transition, where veterans are stepping aside for the young. During the match against Athletic de Bilbao, Ancelotti designed a 4-4-2 with Fede Valverde, Camavinga, Tchuameni, and Bellingham, benching Toni Kross and Luka Modric.
Carlo's experiment worked to perfection! His 4-4-2 formation is very fluid, allowing players like Vini Jr, Bellingham, and Rodrigo, plenty of space to roam and build up attacks.
Jude Bellingham was the star of the show in San Mames. Many Madridistas questioned his ability to carry number 5 on his back due to the history, however, Bellingham looks as confident as ever on the pitch!
Bellingham is a very talented player who tends to roam the mid-field, playing a 'mezzala' role. His great touch and excellent vision alongside his incredible physique truly make him a world-class star.
Bellingham scored on his league debut, tapping in a half-volley from a corner to put up a 2-0! The first of many goals.
Rodrigo Goes put on a great performance as well, always lingering in the shadows but a clinical finisher who doesn't shy away from testing the goalkeeper. He scored the first goal of the night after a great assist from Carvajal.
Vini Jr had a quiet game, where nothing really seemed to work out for him. The Brazilian winger was constantly testing Athletics' right-wing defense, however, his aim in front of goal let him down throughout the game.
Vini Jr missed a couple of 1v1s that could perfectly end in a goal. He needs to regain last season's confidence in front of goal.
Courtois will have a buddy while recovering from his knee injury as Eder Militao twisted his knee badly during the game at San Mames. Two big losses right at the start of the season.
It's always sad to see a player agonizing on the pitch, San Mames went silent for a second. Militao's knee twist was pretty aggressive and everyone on the pitch knew it was related to his ligaments. Scans have shown an ACL tear, meaning he will most likely be out for the rest of the season.
While both Militao and Courtois recover from ACL tears, Real Madrid is still considering a couple of market moves in order to cover their losses.
Courtois is arguably one of the best players on the team and his saves have kept Madrid alive in many games. Lunnin is Madrid's second keeper, and he is alright. Will he be the chosen one?
Florentino Perez has been scouting the market for a starting goalkeeper. Some are saying, Keylor Navas, Kepa, or even De Gea.
Regardless of injury setbacks, Real Madrid is playing some fantastic football. There is a very vivid atmosphere surrounding the club at the moment. The club's youthfulness seems to have rejuvenated the locker room and winning is back on the menu.