This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. — proud sponsors of the Managing Madrid Podcast World Tour! On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani, Matt Wiltse, and Om Arvind discuss: Real Madrid's consistency in the league from a results standpoint What was Real Madrid’s biggest issue in the first half vs Rayo Vallecano? The on-ball positioning Dealing with Rayo's press (and other teams in general, looking ahead to Barcelona and PSG) Thibau Courtois’s performance Luka Modric’s performance Carlo Ancelotti’s post-game quotes The Fede Valverde - Toni Kroos - Luka Modric lineup vs PSG as prophesied by Carlo himself Alternatively, a discussion on Fede on the RW. How are we supposed to turn on the high press magically by the time the 2nd leg starts? Is Carlo’s decision making based on job security? His quotes about ‘trying to press’ The performances of Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy Marco Asensio’s perfromance Carlo’s subs The brilliance of Real Madrid's goal And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Om Arvind (@OmVASports) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Moxy Hotel South Beach, which is where you should be booking your stay when you come see us in Miami for the live podcast in January. Book your tickets here. On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani and Om Arvind discuss: How uninspiring the performance was Alaves was Overarching problems the team has Realistic solutions to Real Madrid's problems, especially for the 2nd leg vs PSG The case for Toni Kroos being the team's #6 The unfair leash with Eduardo Camavinga Difference between first and 2nd halves Alaves's defensive shape Karim Benzema’s performance The big Marco Asensio mistake / what if moment of the game Om’s interview with Caroline Moller And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Kiyan Sobhani (@kiyanSo) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani, Ben Hayward, and Kristofer McCormack discuss: Gareth Bale’s insertion into the starting line-up, and his overall performance Marcelo’s performance Real Madrid’s first half struggles What changed in the second half? The performances of Vinicius Jr, Fede Valverde, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Thibaut Courtois, and Marco Asensio Who should start against PSG? Particularly, at the left back position (if Mendy can’t play), and on the right wing. Under the radar back-up striker signings Jovic’s miss and overall performance off the bench And a TON more. Thanks for attending this podcast, and thanks for listening! PSG post-game podcast will be live on Zoom on Tuesday for Patrons. The link will be over on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Kristofer McCormack (@CastillaCorner) Ben Hayward (@bghayward) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square, On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani and Euan McTear discuss: Carlo Ancelotti's surprise starting XI The performances of Militao, Asensio, Isco, Rodrygo, Marcelo, and more The impact of the substitutions Referee decisions What does this game mean for Eden Hazard moving forward? Eduardo Camavinga's role and bad luck Isco as false 9 The crossing conundrum And a lore more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Euan McTear (@emctear) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Grant Little discusses: - Familiar problems with the 4-2-3-1 - Offside, offside, offside - Rusty return for Zornoza - Estherminator continues her reign of terror - Ways Esther can become even better in this run of good form - Subbing in stoppage time - A look around the league - Establishing an identity to fall back on; individual brilliance isn't a tactic - A look toward Eibar on Feb. 13 Did you enjoy this episode? Please consider supporting us on Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: The weird history of Real Madrid-Real Sociedad matches Surprises in the eleven The way the early goal affected the rest of the game La Real’s awful broadcast Sofie Svava impressing defensively again Real Sociedad’s offensive tactics and why they didn’t work Madrid’s issues vs. the press Why Maite wasn’t very involved Svava as a set-piece taker Asllani’s immediate impact Possible mistakes: Cardona coming off and shifting Maite to the left Arroyo swinging momentum with her subs The poor defending on Real Sociedad’s goal Whether Ivana’s level has dropped this season How Toril uses certain players differently to Aznar Real Sociedad’s final gambit Toril correcting some errors by bringing on Olga and Athenea How the table looks now and Madrid’s path back to the Champions League And more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. — proud sponsors of the Managing Madrid Podcast World Tour! On this episode, we discuss: The not-so-fun 1966 broadcast Miguel Muñoz's starting lineup The YeYe era How special this would’ve been to see live How this game puts the Alfredo di Stefano / Ferenc Puskas era into perspective Araquistain  Paco Gento and Amancio Amaro Importance of Fernando Serena’s winning goal Overreactions to the goals Tactics from both sides Partizan’s reactions after the game And more. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: Why every game vs. Sevilla is so chaotic Early problems with the offense Møller’s skillset and whether that makes her suitable as a lone striker Olga’s struggles in interior zones The surprising thing about Svava’s debut Svava vs. Toni Payne Olga’s and Svava’s tactical compatibility or lack thereof Misa’s mistake on Sevilla’s goal The difference between Real Madrid under Toril vs. under Aznar Sevilla’s big defensive issues Zornoza’s goal, performance, and boom-or-bust tendencies The Møller penalty shout and the referee’s bizarre reaction How Cardona’s tactical intelligence changed the attacking dynamic Cardona’s hilarious reaction on the Athenea goal and her sky-high standards Asllani getting better as the talent around her improves and why that’s underrated Asllani-Athenea link-up Athenea’s dribbling getting supercharged on the left Maite as a #10 and what role/position best suits her Rayo Vallecano’s disgraceful decision to hire Carlos Santiso as coach (CW/TW: rape) Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. — proud sponsors of the Managing Madrid Podcast World Tour! On this episode, we discuss: Were we happy with the performance? Eden Hazard’s performance  Lucas Vazquez’s prformance Vinicius Jr - Karim Benzema connection Vinicius's performance Isco / Even Hazard false vs Luka Jovic Jovic’s performance Ferland Mendy’s prformance Defensive sequences on both goals conceded Eder Militao’s performance Carlo Ancelotti's subs 4-2-3-1 CaseHero moments of the day Can we fix the issue of injury time? And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Om Arvind (@OmVASports) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: All the ways in which the RFEF messed up the scheduling of the Spanish Super Cup Real Madrid’s unique stat vs. Barcelona Madrid’s ‘moral victory’ Las Blancas getting accustomed to facing Barca How Madrid stopped Barcelona from playing through the middle The positional discipline of Kaci and Zornoza Alexia’s tactical adjustments The interesting thing about how Barca created all of their first half chances The hardest thing to do vs. Barcelona The effects of Jonatan Giráldez’s tactical shift at halftime Funky Leila-Alexia rotations Madrid’s three micro-achievements Whether Zornoza should’ve passed the ball on the shot that hit the post Why Toril’s weird subs worked Om possibly underrating Maite’s performance Misa saving Madrid The only mistake Misa made A penalty shout for Real? Athenea’s decision making Olga’s two big mistakes The defensive breakdown on the goal Madrid’s tough upcoming schedule The pressure of playing in front of 85k in the Camp Nou for the first time How Barcelona find and use motivation Future press conference updates Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you Moxy South Beach Hotel, where you should be booking your stay when you come see us for our live podcast in Miami in January. Tickets to the event can be purchased here. On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani, Euan McTear, and Om Arvind discuss: The gap between Real Madrid and Athletic Club Comparing this game to the last two previous matchups between these two teams Are we surprised Real Madrid didn't play deeper? Ferland Mendy's performance The lack of synergy between Mendy and Vinicius Luka Modric and Toni Kroos Should Marcelino have started Nico Williams and Raul Garcia? Mendy, the demoralizer Athletic's press Should Rodrygo be the #1 right winger? Athletic's flurry in the final 20 minutes Going over the referee's decision Post-game celebrations and shenangians Why do we have a connection with Rangers? Will the SuperCopa be played in other countries in the future? The Saudia Arabia experience And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please join our Real Madrid army for more bonus content over on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Om Arvind (@OmVASports) Euan McTear (@emctear) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you Moxy South Beach Hotel, where you should be booking your stay when you come see us for our live podcast in Miami in January. Tickets to the event can be purchased here. On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani, Matt Wiltse, and Om Arvind discuss: Valencia's shocking performance Marco Asensio's performance What's his role exactly? Best player comp? Luka Modric's performance How to juggle Modric and Karim Benzema's contracts to end their careers Toni Kroos's performance Best way to defeat Real Madrid David Alaba and Eder Militao Vinicius Jr's performance Ferland Mendy's performance Casemiro's performance Was it a penalty? The greatness of Vinicius's first goal Where does Vinicius rank among the most entertaining Real Madrid players of the past 30 years? Carlo Ancelotti's subs Eduardo Camavinga's role as the 6 Dani Ceballos's cameo And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Join us for more bonus content over on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Om Arvind (@OmVASports) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. — proud sponsors of the Managing Madrid Podcast World Tour! On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss: Alcoyano's press The performances of Casemiro, Marcelo, Fede Valverde, Eden Hazard The burden on Eduardo Camavinga Should we have seen Antonio Blanco, Sergio Arribas, Peter? Should Isco / Ceballos have started? Andriy Lunin's performance Carlo Ancelotti's post-game quotes The hilariousness of the last two goals And more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. -- proud sponsors of the Managing Madrid Podcast World Tour! This episode comes in two parts. Part One, Getafe Post-game with Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse Listing all the factors that contributed to Real Madrid's loss to Getafe Where there any good standout players? Casemiro's performance Luka Modric's performance Carlo Ancelotti's subs Eder Militao's mistake What could Carlo have done differently? Marcelo's impact Would Dani Ceballos have been a good fit in this game? Peter Thoughts on Rudiger's salary demands And a ton more Part two (1:00:00), Castilla Corner with Sam Sharpe with Kristofer McCormack The season so far Peter Federico’s debut with the first team Was it merited? His future. Reinier Jesus Will Raul leave at the end of the season Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square, On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani answered these questions: Will Zidane coach Real Madrid again? Would Jonathan David be a good back-up Real Madrid striker? How would Mbappe - Benzema - Vinicius - Haaland fit together? Are teams learning how to defend Vinicius? Favourite vacation destinations BBC vs KCM if only one trio could be chosen Why are we putting out a podcast over the Holidays? Pressing vs counter-pressing And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Royal Sonesta Washington DC, where you should be booking your stay when you come to the live show we’re doing in DC! Tickets here. This episode comes in two parts. Part One: Ahtletic Post-game, Kiyan Sobhani and Mehedi Hassan discuss: Was this the best possible starting XI from Carlo Ancelotti? Eden Hazard’s performance The case for Peter Federico Ancelotti’s post-game quotes about Hazard Benzema’s goals The Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga midfield Camavinga’s perforamnce The lack of Luka Modric The Eder Militao / Nacho pairing What went wrong after Benzema’s goals? Subs and last minute chaos And more. Part Two (52:43): Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Yash Thakur discuss: Contrasts between the first and second halves Real Madrid’s tendency to start games slowly The need to swap Babs and Ivana The strange spacing between the wide center-backs and Madrid’s transitional build-up structure Sporting Huelva’s key tactical mistake Revisiting the Esther discourse The proper context behind Nahikari’s struggles Why it’s so hard to argue that Esther is a net negative How Kenti’s positioning changed things for Madrid in the second half Athenea as the key difference maker Why the Esther-Nahikari partnership looked better after the break The advantages of utilizing Maite in an advanced role The performances of the subs Whether Madrid can realistically make a push for Champions League football Derbi Madrileño And more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Yash Thakur (@Odriozolite) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Mehedi Hassan (@MHassanFootball) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. Use code ManagingMadrid for at 15% discount upon checkout! This episode comes in two parts. Part One: Cadiz Post-game, hosted by Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse Real Madrid's struggles vs low blocks Issues in the first half -- what were we doing wrong? The symmetrical 4-3-3 with Hazard on the right Ferland Mendy's role Why was Hazard better in the 2nd half? Carlo Ancelotti's pre-game quotes about Hazard Would Carlo have started Luka Modric if he was healthy? Casemiro's tackle which resulted in a yellow card Thoughts on VAR Lineup vs Athletic Club on Wednesday A midfield trio of Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Tonit Kroos Lucas Vazquez's crosses Luka Jovic's cameo off the bench And more. Part Two (54:00): Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: Grant correctly predicting how most of the game would play out Toril’s change in offensive approach vs. Madrid CFF What kind of effect the turf pitch actually had The historic problem that Toril needs to solve The contradictions between the ideal personnel and ideal tactical system How to manage Cardona’s minutes as she plays her way back into form 15-year-old Vicky cooking our defense Zornoza’s defensive weaknesses showing up on the conceded goal Møller’s performance out wide vs. in the middle Teresa’s excellence How Olga’s injury changed the formation Whether the challenge on Olga should’ve resulted in a card Maite as a #10 The 5-2-1-2/3-4-1-2 structure altering everything in Real Madrid’s favor Esther’s impressive season so far The subtle magic of Maite to create the winner Athenea’s endearing cockiness Esther’s crazy finish on the third goal The long-term implications of Olga’s potentially serious injury Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@MattWiltse4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: The craziness in the rest of the UWCL matches Why the squad list came out so late Toril’s emphasis on managing Asllani’s minutes Nahikari on the importance of the fans The reason Ivana was taken out of the starting lineup Clarifying (or introducing more confusion to) the whole Ivana at LCB situation Kharkiv’s defensive tactics shutting down Asllani Toril’s use of his wingers Real Madrid’s struggles in open play Maite’s and Teresa’s performances Who the POTM was Our potent offensive set-piece strategy Cardona being dangerous despite being nowhere near her best The DAZN commentator saying ‘Flash Cardona’ and showing us that he did his research How Real Madrid created Maite’s golazo Why Asllani came off at the half and what Toril had to say about it Problems with the Møller-Corredera pairing Møller’s best position Møller reacting to the fans chanting her name Toril’s thoughts on where Møller should play Toril wanting Møller to be more selfish Evaluating the substitutes’ performances Athenea’s fire Corredera vs. Olha Ovdiychuk Madrid’s potential quarter-final opponents Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. Use code ManagingMadrid for at 15% discount upon checkout! This episode comes in two parts. Part One: Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Post-game Santiago Bernabeu atmosphere Luka Modric’s performance and ability to feed the crowd Atletico’s defense on the wings Vinicius Jr vs Marco Llorente Why the first goal was so good and incredibly important Llorente’s fitness / physical attributes Kieran Trippier’s absence Our build up structure Did Diego Simeone get his lineup right? Lahoz things Breaking down the 2nd half Kondogbia as CB Carlo Ancelotti’s post game quotes and comparison in 2015 More rotations talk Part Two (50:30): Real Madrid Femenino vs Barcelona Post-game The return of Real Madrid’s fighting spirit Surprises in the lineup Why Cardona not starting might’ve been justified Shoutout to Miri and her very audible megaphone Alberto Toril maybe not knowing his squad yet The problem with playing Ivana Andrés at left center-back How Madrid started as the better team and whether it would’ve lasted if it weren’t for the opening goal The value of going toe-to-toe with Barcelona The intricacies of Barca’s offensive tactics and how they dominate the channels Mariona Caldentey being criminally underrated Rocío suffering more than anyone else defensively Why it’s nearly impossible to defend La Blaugrana with conventional tactics in a back four How Barcelona’s first goal created their third goal Misa always showing up vs. Barca The way in which Real Madrid’s goal sums up everything that makes Asllani great Lucía’s key offensive contributions Asllani playing at her best ever level in a white shirt? How both sides’ subs affected the balance of the game Kaci’s performance Esther’s immense defensive work-rate Whether Las Blancas were robbed of a penalty Esther causing all hell to break loose on Twitter and stoking needed fire in a fledgling rivalry Why you should never stop posting And more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Euan McTear (@emctear) Kristofer McCormack (@CastillaCorner) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: Some of the drama prior to this game Why it’s hard to take much away this early on Asllani’s brilliance How Asllani makes Esther better Tactical differences between Toril and Aznar The Asllani-Athenea partnership Putting Athenea’s inefficient dribbling stats vs. Breidablik in context Møller’s performance and her value as a winger vs. as a striker Hyper-analyzing Møller’s dribbling Whether Møller still has a relevant role with Asllani and Cardona back Why Real Madrid were way worse in the second half Building up vs. the press Maite and Cardona reviving the team off the bench The motivational lift from Cardona returning Maite’s passing vs. Teresa’s and Zornoza’s When we might need to have a discussion about Nahikari’s form Why Nahikari might continue to struggle to get back to her best Being content with whatever happens in the knockouts Sam Kerr decking a pitch invader Fans needing to respect boundaries with athletes Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. Use code ManagingMadrid for at 15% discount upon checkout! On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani, Om Arvind, and Gabe Lezra discuss: Vinicius Jr's performance vs Real Sociedad Eder Militao's performance Real Madrid's defense Luka Jovic’s performance Offensive scheme The Casemiro / Camavinga sub David Alaba’s role Eden Hazard as false 9 Winter transfers Lineups without Casemiro  And more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@kiyanSo) Om Arvind (@omvasports) Gabe Lezra Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by The Guild. Use code ManagingMadrid for at 15% discount upon checkout! On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: The David Aznar dismissal blindsiding almost everyone, including Aznar himself and the players Ana Rossell’s position possibly being under threat Our reactions to the news Chiringuito breaking it first The final straw on the camel’s back for the board Why now and not before Alberto Toril’s lack of experience in women’s football Whether the length of Toril’s contract means anything Why assistant coach Irene Ferreras wasn’t appointed as manager Toril’s CV, coaching history, and accomplishments What Castilla followers think of Toril Toril’s tactics with Castilla and Elche Toril’s tactics vs. Aznar’s How Toril’s tactics might fit Real Madrid’s players When we’ll be able to have an idea of Toril’s vision for the team What Toril’s biggest positive effect will be in the short term Aznar’s legacy Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Bisha Hotel Toronto. Book your stay with Bisha and used code SOCIAL upon checkout. On this episode, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss: The absolute greatness of the Vinicius Jr goal Why Sevilla were the better team in the 1st half Casemiro's performance Sevilla’s build-up Real Madrid's press and counter press Marco Asensio’s performance Eder Militao’s performance Dani Carvajal’s performance Eduardo Camavinga and Fede Valverde's performance off the bench Carlo Ancelotti's rotations and the team's fatigue Karim Benzema vs Thierry Henry Vinicius Jr vs Phil Foden And more. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Los Angeles, September Toronto, October Dallas, November New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@kiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@mattWiltse4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square, which is where you should be booking your stay when you come see us for the Managing Madrid Podcast LIVE in New York City in December. Tickets to the New York podcast are here. On this episode of Las Blancas Podcast, Om Arvind and Grant Little discuss: Whether this is the most frustrating Real Madrid Femenino game we’ve ever watched The Freja Olofsson transfer rumors The actual attractiveness of Madrid as a project Optimism on the starting eleven The true lineup fiasco Aznar — yes, Aznar — scoring Being tired What Alavés did well tactically Positive vs. negative criticism How the diamond started to work The only way Nahikari García scores Real, actual dominance The most inexplicable set of substitutions you’ll ever see The insane drop off in performance after the changes The complete lack of process-oriented thinking and decision-making Tactical inconsistency over the course of the season The necessity of a coherent playing philosophy Claudia Zornoza’s classy long-distance passing The Esther-Nahikari duo working Teresa Abelleira looking off since coming back from injury The innocent excitement of preseason feeling so far away Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Om Arvind (@OmVAsports) Grant Little (@grantlittle09) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast is brought to you by Bisha Hotel Toronto, where you should book your stay when you come see us in Toronto in October (Clasico weekend). Book your tickets here. On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss: David Alaba’s performance Casemiro’s performance The interchangeability of the center backs and Casemiro Granada's defense Toni Kroos’s performance Marco Asensio’s performance Karim Benzema’s performance Vinicius Jr's performances Our set piece routines Breaking down the goals we scored, as well as the one we conceded Luka Modric’s performance Can Vinicius sustain this all season? And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Book your tickets to these cities on the Managing Madrid Podcast world tour: Los Angeles, September Toronto, October Dallas, November New York, December Miami, January London, February Washington DC, March Chicago, April Mumbai, May Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@kiyanSo) Matt Wiltse (@mattWiltse4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices