Real Madrid’s recent struggles against Liverpool and Rayo Vallecano should raise serious concerns about the team’s current tactical setup. Los Blancos have drifted away from what worked so well just a few weeks ago — intense pressing and a balanced attack — and the on-field fit between Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé in a 4-3-3 formation looks increasingly untenable.
To get the best out of those three undisputed starters, Xabi Alonso may need to consider a tactical shift: a move to a 4-4-2 diamond. Here are three reasons why that change makes sense.
Xabi Alonso needs to make adjustments. This squad is loaded with talent, but it lacks cohesion and balance in terms of player profiles. A shift to a 4-4-2 diamond could be exactly what Real Madrid need to restore structure, maximize their stars, and ultimately save their season.