Arda, Huijsen, Mastantuono. The young guns had their share of mistakes and mishaps. All three also looked a step behind physically. The only way to catch up is to play these games. The maturation process will take time, but it has to happen sooner or later.
The press—where do we start? Sometimes good, sometimes awful. Huijsen and Militao struggled, especially in the first half. Marseille’s forwards forced decisions, and both were too slow to push up. That left gaps between midfield and defense, which Marseille exploited.
Madrid need more of these matches against elite European sides. They punish weaknesses and force you to improve. De Zerbi’s Marseille are well-coached and stocked with quality players. They did damage. Alonso will have plenty of clips for tomorrow’s video session.
Still, as chaotic and fallible as the press was, it created chances. 28 shots total, 15 on target, two posts. The team needs to be more clinical at this level.
High pressing is always risk-reward. Alonso clearly believes the pros outweigh the cons.
€50 million is starting to look like a bargain. Carreras does all the little things right. His engine to run the flank for 90 minutes, game after game, is remarkable. Greenwood was neutralized down Marseille’s right side.
The club and coach were right to insist on his signing over names like Grimaldo or Theo. Carreras already looks like the piece Madrid have needed.
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