🔗 Share this article Real Madrid Commanding however Vinicius Issues Grow – Key Clasico Talking Points The match represented almost a perfect performance for Xabi Alonso's squad, as they overcame Barca 2-1 during El Clasico and extend their advantage at the summit in the Spanish league to five points. The English midfielder scored his maiden league goal and key pass this campaign after a challenging period healing from surgery on his shoulder. Kylian Mbappe showed his lethal performance when scoring, while Alonso's tactics during his debut El Clasico on the sidelines worked like a charm. Yet the issue surrounding Vinicius reared its head once more. Frustrated at coming off, Vinicius complained on his way straight past the coach and marched off the pitch, then returning on the sidelines after a short while. Tactical Setup Delivers Positive Outcomes from Jude Bellingham In his first derby, it was a solid start, given that seven of Real's previous eight bosses lost their first La Liga match with their rivals. Following the player-focused method of Carlo Ancelotti fell short earlier, Alonso's positional game-model yielded its first major result. Spanish football analyst commented, “He got it spot on. Madrid performed excellently, while Barcelona didn't play well because of Madrid's tactics.” When not in possession, they pushed up consistently, if overcome, they retreated with discipline, all players even Vinicius.” “They defended in two layers spaced by a short distance. Barca could not find a way through.” This approach looks to be beneficial for Bellingham, as he in the past was essentially asked to do everything in the center and beyond. In the lineup the young star played on the right, however he could to drift inward and either link with Mbappe or get into scoring positions. The expert continued, With Eduardo Camavinga in the center, this provides more dynamism and additional options to block the spaces.” This led to them to position Bellingham wide right. I'm sure his role included to keep an eye on the runs of Mbappe on the ball and had space, connecting with him a few times.” He was told to get into the box and be around the edge of the box, his most effective zone. He also came inside to cut off passing options creating the opponent's play tough.” Conflict Issues Revealed It's clear that the fans adore Vinicius, his chant was chanted on several occasions by the passionate Bernabeu crowd. Yet multiple numerous stories lately that Real Madrid would consider selling him if an attractive proposal arrived. He has one year remaining on his deal at the end of the campaign, yet talks over a new deal have stalled. His response to being replaced late in the game suggested tension. Post-game, he was held back as he attempted to confront Yamal. The expert said, Many will criticize him for good reason, since it displayed a lack of respect toward his replacement who replaced him.” “But since being a kid, his life has been in a hostile world, and perceives that he faces opposition.” “That mentality is tough to overcome, notably when you believe on the verge of number one in the world, and the organization redirects attention in favor of Mbappe as the star.” “This season he has perceived that the club has not supported him. Reports suggest, potentially club-sourced, or unchallenged by officials, that they would be open an offer worth €250 million for his transfer and allow him to leave.” “He feels all that, and after Alonso subbed him – justifiably, since he wasn't defending as required – in his mind he thinks why single me out?’.” Building bridges will be tough to mend relations among the parties and the player at the moment.” Barca's Approach “Struggles” Having triumphed in all four of last season's derbies, Sunday's performance highlighted Barcelona's unconvincing beginning of the season. Injuries have left without Hansi Flick of crucial contributors such as Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Olmo, and the approach is not effective when they are missing. Balague said, Barcelona appear is a little bit less sharp when not in possession, with less desire to win it back, softer to reclaim the ball.” They are more vulnerable to create chances against them. When the backline is not organized, which was the case the first goal since the defender kept him onside, they are not helped from the attack not challenging those on the ball as expected.” Lamine Yamal, the main threat in previous meetings, was kept largely in check. “Their stars were below par. Yamal doesn't feel like in top condition, maybe due to a groin issue