On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Om Arvind dicussed: Real Madrid's defensive vulnerabilityLuka Modric being God but needing more help from the teamHow Real Madrid should be working to prevent countersMindset heading into the PSG matchPersonnel / tactical problemsCasemiro's role, and whether he's conducive to the team winningSubbing Gareth BaleAsensio's minutesFalse 9 -- yay or nay?Where would Zidane go next season if it came down to that?Real Madrid managers throughout history who've returned after being firedWhat Twitter would be like if it were around during the Di Stefano / Puskas eraThe pros and cons of playing the 2nd leg away from homeAnd more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through our Patreon page: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Om Arvind discuss: Where this win ranks among other performances this seasonReal Madrid's wonky and fluctuating xGReal Madrid's press, and how they dealt with Valencia'sCasemiro being CasemiroZidane's subsRoles of the midfield trioGoncalo Guedes / Carlos Soler swapThe Isco question, and debunking narratives against himCrossing stats, and the correlation with playing wellDiego LlorenteJesus Vallejo as a theoretical DMOm's video about the Benzema - Ronaldo partnershipState of refereeing in La LigaAnd a ton more! Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us on Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani was joined by David Garrido of Sky Sports to discuss: Valencia's form this season, including their recent slumpMarcelino's blitzing counter-attack, and Real Madrid's worrying transition defenseThe upside of Carlos SolerMaksimovic, Santi Mina, Francis Coquelin and Valencia's depthThe discipline required to buy into Marcelino's blueprintThe bitter rivalry between Real Madrid and ValenciaThe Gaizka Mendieta 'what if' in 2001Valencia's backline, and lack of center backs for this weekendDevelopments on 'Nou Mestalla'Real Madrid's identityThe blame -- where does it lie?The upside of Dani CeballosAnd more! Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadri Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan, Gabe, and Om discuss: The tactical differences against Deportivo compared to previous schemesThe improved structure of the midfield trioGareth Bale's importance, not only offensively, but also in terms of balanceBorja Mayoral's performanceThe Isco questionMinor nitpickingPSG discussionZinedine Zidane's post-game commentsQuezada's shift from left back to left wingBarcelona in the Champions LeagueA massive discussion on Ronaldo's inevitable departure, and how it should go down Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gabe Lezra rolls solo in this episode (Kiyan was busy being a good father, the loser, while Om is overseas...) where he recaps Madrid's victory in the Butarque. It wasn't a great match, but it was a great result for Madrid, especially this season. Additionally, he also talks scouting--which young players looked good in the Butarque, and how to separate their individual performances as prospects from how the team looks. Finally, he brings in a Let's Fix Football crossover, featuring some clips where he, his co-host Evan Mateer and James Rushton of our SBN partner blogs The AC Milan Offside and 7500 to Holte. They talk AC Milan's recent issues and the Russian doping scandal's effect on FIFA.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss: Their initial reaction to Pablo Fornals's goalTactics against Villarreal, and general schematic problems during this rutThe differences between this 'diamond' and last year's diamondThe need for tactical rejuvinationPriorities this seasonCristiano Ronaldo.The benefits that Dani Ceballos could bring....A question on player declineCrossing stats against VillarrealAnd a ton more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadri Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Allen Dodson discussed: Villarreal's Copa del Rey exit, and their historical negligence in this competitionThe emergence of Pablo FornalsDefensive drop-offs and not being able to replace players like Eric Bailly and Mateo MussacchioA breakdown of the Cedric Bakambu dealPossible replacement(s) for BakambuaVillarreal's probable starting XI and scheme against Real MadridJuan Roman Riquelme's allure, and Villarreal's most fun sides since the turn of the centuryAnd more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Gabe Lezra and Kiyan Sobhani discussed:   Marcelo's post-game commentsMarcelo's defensive problems, and other problems withing the team surrounding him that made it even worseThe diference between Toni Kroos and Luka Modric defensivelyLacking "fire"Gareth Bale putting the team on his back, and becoming a leader when the team needs oneAchraf's performance.Zidane's comments about the team not needing a goalkeeper"Has Zidane tried everything?"The patience and grooming needed with Marcos LlorenteObvious and glaring tactical problems that have dumbfounded us And a ton more If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani was joined by Spanish football journalist Alexandra Jonson (@AlexandraJonson on Twitter) to discuss Real Madrid's upcoming opponent Celta Vigo, and namely:   John Guidetti's interesting career, and how he's fallen so much out of Celta's rotationCelta Vigo's summer, and general transfer philosophy which has fans dividedHow Real Madrid can handle the Aspas-Maxi-Sisto trifectaAn outside view of Real Madrid's disappointing season until nowCelta's rotations after playing all their key players against BarcaRuben Blanco -- underrated treasureAnd a ton more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through our Patreon page: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan and Lucas discussed:   A nightmarish second half in El ClasicoThe starting line-up. What was good about it, and what were its flawsZinedine Zidane's reaction in the second halfReal Madrid's offensive labour without a player to bind the counter-attackThe defensive decisions of inidividuals in the second half which had multiple domino effectsLa Liga title race, and Zidane's line-of-thinking to salvage the seasonAnd a ton more. Did you enjoy this podcast (maybe you weren't in a good mood after this game, alas), then please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani was joined by Alex Kirkland to discuss all things el Clasico, including: Gareth Bale's role in this game: How many minutes will he get, and what will he bring to the table?Furthermore, what part do Isco and Benzema play?Barca's probable XI, and the Jordi Alba threatOur favourite Clasicos in recent memoryThe most entertaining Clasicos from a neutral perspectiveReal Madrid's second goal-keeper optionsDani Ceballlos's playing timeAlex's favourite punjabi songsAnd more! If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider supporting us through out Patreon page: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid podcast, Gabe, Om, and Kiyan discussed: Kaka's legacy at Real MadridAntoinne Greizmann's costume The difference in schemes between the matches against Al Jazira and GremioThe innocence and sweetness of Jesus VallejoCristiano Ronaldo's infinite records A potential Harry Kane / Kylian Mbappe fitJose Angel Sanchez -- the brilliant man behind the scenesGareth Bale, and Clasico formationsOur favourite coaches since 2000Player from the past we'd most like to intergrate into today's squadAnd a ton more! Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us on Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan, Gabe, and Om discussed: The mess that is Sevilla FCReal Madrid's diverse offensive scheme: fresh and efficientThe great shifts from Real Madrid's back-line in the absences of key defensive playersAgain, the recurring Isco debateStandouts: Asensio and RonaldoZidane's substitutions, and Kiyan's sadness of the Bernabeu's reaction to Llorente's subAnd a ton more Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan and Om discussed: The hot topic that is Isco's free-role: Issues, difference between this season's scheme and last season's, potential benefits, and the dangerous dominoesReal Madrid's struggle in creating chancesBenzema and Ronaldo: xGs, isolations, having to drop deep, disconnected as a duo, not receiving the ball in areas where they can thriveWhat would Gareth Bale solve once he returns?De Gea / KepaAll the reasons why Real Madrid have not looked like themselves (no spoilers in this bullet point. You'll have to listen to the pod)Raul Garcia smhSchematic solutions: Tinkering with different formations, fresh ideas, and better substitutional patternsA ton more Did you enjoy this pod? Want access to more? Want rewards? Maybe you just want to support us? Please consider supporting us through Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gabe Lezra and Om Arvind break down Real Madrid's discombobulated win versus Malaga, touching on everything from Cristiano Ronaldo's state of mind while taking penalties, to Zidane's tactical decision to roll out a strange 4-4-2 variant. They also discuss Isco's role in the tactical strategy, and the plusses and minuses of such a roaming playmaking position.  They also discuss Barcelona's 1-1 draw with Valencia at the Mestalla--which, interestingly, could be a strong metaphor for both sides' seasons so far.  Finally, they take your patron questions--enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discuss: Tactics against Atletico: The good, the bad, and that 'what should've been different'Zidane's subs, and lack of reaction to what was unfolding in front of himRonaldo and Benzema's formThe polarizing figure that is IscoCasemiro, Modric, and Kroos's ability to deal with a pressAtletico's approach / butcheringThe..... referee.... .. .A ton more If you enjoyed this podcast, and want access to more content, please join us on Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Om Arvind joined Kiyan Sobhani to discuss:  World Cup Qualifiers / international breakGareth Bale's health, and big decisions moving forwardTransfer rumours, and summer wishlists from fansHow conceivable are these Neymar rumours?Missing Mateo KovacicBernabeu pressureWhiplash wisdomClearing up some Ceballos / Vazquez misconceptions   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Gabe, Kiyan and Om discuss: Real Madrid's victory over Las Palmas at the Bernabeu: tactical kinks, improvements, and everything in betweenJesus Vallejo's fantastic debutBenzema... Yikes.Ronaldo's performanceAsensio breathing life into the team with his golazoWhere Borja Mayoral's development isSquad depth: Is this issue overblown? What are Real Madrid's options without James and Morata, exactly?And a ton more If you like this podcast, and want to join us for more bonus content, sign up over at Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special Managing Madrid Podcast - Let's Fix Football crossover episode, Gabe Lezra and Evan Mateer interview their friend and FCPA specialist Ernesto Alvarado about the recent PSG corruption allegations surrounding president Al Khalaifi, the crisis in Catalunya and its impact on the future of European football, and the Spanish league's corruption investigation surroungin the President Villar.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Gabe, Om, and Kiyan discussed: Real Madrid's worst performance of the season: Mental miscues, misplaced passes, and discomfort in dealing with Girona's pressLa Liga title race: Chances or climbing back up, and the response against TottenhamStandouts: Isco and VaraneAchraf......Zidane's wonky subs: The insistance on Lucas, and the weird left flankDani Ceballos potentially being a huge help in this gameNot picking up Maffeo leading to Girona's (offside) winning goalThe diamond -- why are we struggling with it all of a sudden?And a ton, ton more.. Want a guaranteed response to your questions (among many other things)? Join us on Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Spanish football journalist Sid Lowe (The Guardian, ESPNFC) joined Kiyan Sobhani to discuss:   Real Madrid's upcoming Copa del Rey match: What it means to Fuenlabrada, how the players reacted, and how bumpin' Estadio Fernando Torres will be on ThursdayFernando Torres's connection with the clubFernando Morientes's brief stint as head coach of FuenlabradaCastilla, SolariCopa del Rey schedule this weekValencia's strict diet regime under MarcelinoAnd more! If you enjoyed this podcast, and want more bonus content, join our army on Patreon: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Gabe, Om (making his official Sunday debut!), and Kiyan discussed: The tactical kinks that were manifested by Real Madrid, and weren't punished by a subpar EibarIndividual performances (specificially: Ceballos, Benzema, Marcelo, Theo, Varane, Casemiro)Furthermore: Casemiro's very good and very bad moments in this game, Varane's dominance, Ceballos's contrast to Kroos, Theo's pace, and Marcelo's abnormal roleZidane's substitutionsBarcelona's first goal against Malaga, and the urgent need for VARTheo's steep competition in both the Spanish and French national teamsAnd much more If you like us, Patronize us: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. I mean it not, leave us a rating at least. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Gabe Lezra discussed: The starting line-up against Getafe -- the upsides, the downsides, and positives, and the negativesThe context needed for Llorente's performanceAchraf looking goodCristiano Ronaldo putting the team on his backKarim Benzema's link-up play lolololololololA ton, ton more. If you enjoyed this pod, consider becoming a Patron over at Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. If you can't do that, give us a rating on iTunes, yeah? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Matt Wiltse discussed:   The internationabl break, and updates on the situations of Cristiano Ronaldo, Raphael Varane, Luka Modric, and Mateo Kovacic in particularReal Madrid's lack of efficiency with set-pieces this seasonPlaying time for Marcos Llorente and Dani CeballosKarim Benzema's best seasons as a footballerInjury updates: Karim Benzema, Dani Carvajal, Mateo Kovacic, Theo Hernandez, Marcelo, Gareth BaleThe swapping of Ronaldo and Isco in Zinedine Zidane's schemeHow we become MadridistaMichel Salgado vs Dani CarvajalAnd more! Did you enjoy this podcast? Become a Patron, and get exclusive rewards: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid (Please also rate us on iTunes and subscribe) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special Managing Madrid Podcast - Let's Fix Football crossover episode, Gabe Lezra and Evan Mateer interview their friend James Rushton to break down Italian football, and discuss the intersection of sport and politics. James, who runs SBNation's AC Milan site the AC Milan Offside, and SBNation's Aston Villa site 7500 to Holte, breaks down the crisis at Milan for the guys before getting into the more serious subject--the intersection between politics and sport. The guys discuss James' recent article on politics and sport, before diving into the Catalan referendum and FC Barcelona's involvement, and the comments by the US President about the NFL and the US's historical dislike for politics and sport.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices