Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure in 2018, Karim Benzema has emerged as the linchpin of Real Madrid’s attack. No longer playing in the shadow of the Portuguese talisman, Benzema has embraced his role as both a prolific scorer and a creative force, often dropping deep to orchestrate play from midfield. His evolution has been pivotal to Real Madrid’s successes in recent years.
However, time is an unforgiving opponent. At 35, Benzema
remains sharp, but age inevitably dulls even the finest edges. While he
continues to deliver, it’s prudent for Real Madrid to prepare for a future
where their attack is less reliant on his brilliance. Fortunately, the club
possesses two prodigious talents waiting in the wings: Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo
Goes.
The Case for a New
Offensive Dynamic
This season, Real Madrid’s attack still revolves heavily
around Benzema. Yet, Vinícius and Rodrygo have shown their readiness to
shoulder greater responsibility. The question arises: why not grant them more
freedom up front, gradually transitioning the team’s offensive focus?
Rodrygo, in particular, offers a compelling case to step
into the role of a traditional No. 9. His performances for Brazil’s U-23 team
provide a glimpse of his potential in this position. Against South Korea, he
excelled as a centre-forward, scoring decisively. In Cairo, he shone again
against Egypt, demonstrating the instincts of a "fox in the box" – a
player who thrives in exploiting spaces and angles within the penalty
area.
At Real Madrid, Rodrygo has evolved significantly. While
primarily deployed as a winger, he has refined his ability to cut inside and
deliver precise finishes. His versatility allows him to adapt seamlessly to a
central role, where his clinical edge could be maximized. What he requires now
is a tactical framework that capitalizes on his goal-scoring instincts.
The Rise of Vinícius
Júnior
On the flanks, Vinícius Júnior continues to establish
himself as a formidable presence. His electrifying pace, combined with dazzling
dribbling skills, makes him a nightmare for defenders. While his finishing in
the final third remains a work in progress, his ability to disrupt defensive
lines and create scoring opportunities is undeniable.
Under Zidane’s tutelage, Vinícius could refine his
decision-making and shooting accuracy, transforming him into a more complete
forward. His capacity to draw defenders and stretch the opposition creates the
perfect platform for a central striker – and Rodrygo could be that striker.
Moving Beyond the
Past
The experiments with Luka Jović and Eden Hazard have yielded
little. Jović has struggled to find his rhythm, while Hazard’s persistent
injuries have prevented him from making any significant impact. It’s time for
Real Madrid to embrace the future, entrusting their young stars with greater
responsibility.
A Vision for the
Future
A forward line led by Rodrygo, with Vinícius marauding the
wings, offers Real Madrid a dynamic, youthful, and versatile attack. Rodrygo’s
instinctive finishing and positional intelligence could relieve Benzema of his
burdens, allowing the Frenchman to transition into a more supportive role as
his career winds down.
Vinícius, on the other hand, can continue to wreak havoc on
the flanks, splitting defences with his pace and creativity. With proper
guidance, he could evolve into a more decisive player in front of goal,
complementing Rodrygo’s central presence.
The Road Ahead
Real Madrid stands at a crossroads. They can persist with an
ageing Benzema at the centre of their attack or begin laying the groundwork for
a new era, led by the prodigious talents of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes.
The latter path promises a future brimming with potential – a future where Real
Madrid’s attack is defined by youthful exuberance, versatility, and clinical
precision.
It’s time for Los Blancos to turn the page, allowing their young stars to shine and reduce the weight on Benzema’s shoulders. The next chapter in Real Madrid’s storied history is ready to be written – and Vinícius and Rodrygo are poised to take centre stage.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
No comments:
Post a Comment