Just eight or nine months ago, Real Madrid found itself adrift, grappling with an identity crisis that cut deep into the club’s soul. Under Rafael Benítez, the footballing powerhouse seemed reduced to a shadow of its illustrious self, struggling for coherence and creativity. Both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League turned into arenas of frustration, where Real's performances were not just below par but became the subject of ridicule, feeding the relentless appetite of social media mockery.
For many fans, myself included, the vision under Benítez was nothing short of disheartening. A squad brimming with talent looked stifled and devoid of ideas, especially in the midfield, which became the symbol of this creative drought. Toni Kroos, one of Europe’s finest attacking midfielders, was unconvincingly forced into a defensive role, while the team's rhythm faltered like a symphony played off-key.
The Gamble That Changed Everything
Enter Florentino Pérez, the club’s enigmatic president, whose mid-season gamble will go down as a defining chapter in Real Madrid folklore. The sacking of Benítez and the appointment of Zinedine Zidane as head coach was bold, bordering on audacious. Unlike Pep Guardiola’s hyper-innovative approach at Barcelona, Zidane did not attempt to reinvent the wheel. Instead, he brought clarity, pragmatism, and a deep understanding of the club’s DNA—traits that often distinguish great managers from good ones. His mantra was simple: play the right players in their natural positions, allow them to thrive, and build balance within the squad.
The Masterstroke: Casemiro’s Inclusion
One of Zidane’s first and most crucial decisions was the reintroduction of Casemiro into the starting lineup, a move that added much-needed steel to the midfield. Defensive midfielders—those unsung warriors tasked with maintaining equilibrium—are rarely showered with praise, yet their impact is often the cornerstone of a team’s success. Casemiro performed this role with the elegance and tenacity reminiscent of Brazilian greats like Zito, Mauro Silva, and Dunga. His presence allowed Real Madrid to regain control in transitions, providing a solid foundation from which the team could launch attacks.
Luka Modrić, meanwhile, emerged as the conductor of the midfield, operating with the vision and intelligence of legends like Didi and Gérson. With Casemiro anchoring the team, Modrić had the freedom to dictate the tempo, pulling the strings with subtle finesse. Zidane's tactical rejig also liberated Kroos from his misplaced defensive duties, unleashing him in the creative role he flourishes in—one he plays with distinction for Germany.
The Perfect Balance of Power and Poise
The synergy in midfield had a ripple effect on the rest of the team. With a balanced core behind them, the attacking tridents of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Gareth Bale found the freedom to express themselves. Real Madrid’s game, once lethargic and uninspired, now brimmed with intent, precision, and momentum. It is often said that no matter how many star strikers a team possesses, success at the highest level remains elusive without a solid midfield and defence. Zidane’s Real Madrid exemplified this truth.
A Season of Resurrection
The transformation was nothing short of miraculous. From a position of mediocrity, Real Madrid’s performances began to gather pace. Their La Liga campaign, once drifting, took on new life, and in Europe, they grew in stature with every passing round. Last night, they achieved the ultimate prize—crowned as Champions of Europe.
What makes this victory all the more staggering is the trajectory of the season. The team’s journey from near despair to triumph highlights the importance of leadership, structure, and trust in the players. Zidane may not have revolutionized the game, but he restored belief, balance, and simplicity—three virtues that are often overlooked in the modern footballing landscape.
Zidane: The Catalyst Behind the Renaissance
At the heart of this revival lies Zinedine Zidane. He did not chase tactical trends or indulge in overambitious schemes; instead, he focused on restoring a sense of purpose to the squad. His tenure will be remembered not only for the trophies won but for the elegance with which he steered the club through turbulent waters.
Real Madrid’s story this season is a testament to the power of simplicity, balance, and trust in fundamentals. Zidane’s legacy will be defined not just by the silverware but by how he brought Real Madrid back to life.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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