🔗 Share this article The Madrid Giants Strong but Vinicius Tensions Grow – Key Clasico Highlights It was practically a flawless day from Real Madrid, who overcame their arch-rivals 2-1 during El Clasico and increase their advantage in first place of the Spanish league to five points. The English midfielder notched his first domestic strike and setup of the season after a challenging period healing from shoulder surgery. Mbappe continued his lethal touch when scoring, and the manager's strategy in his inaugural Clasico on the sidelines worked like a charm. However the Vinicius Junior question emerged again once more. Dissatisfied at coming off, Vinicius protested as he walked directly past Xabi Alonso before stormed off the pitch, then reappearing to the substitute area later. Tactical Setup Gets Success from the Midfielder In his first derby, Alonso did well, given that seven of Madrid's last eight coaches were defeated in their debut league meeting against Barca. After the player-focused style of Carlo Ancelotti fell short last season, the new tactical system produced a significant outcome. A specialist commented, “He got it spot on. The home side were impressive, and Barca were off-color due to what Real Madrid were doing.” When not in possession, they pressed high consistently, if overcome, they retreated in a structured manner, everybody including the forward.” “They defended in two lines with a gap of a short distance. The opposition were unable to break through.” The tactical change seems beneficial for the midfielder, who previously was essentially asked to carry the midfield in midfield and additional duties. Theoretically the 22-year-old played on the right, but in practice he was allowed to come inside and support Mbappe or crash the penalty area. Balague continued, “By using the French midfielder in the center, you get more dynamism and additional options to close down the passing lanes.” This led to the team to put Bellingham on the right flank. I'm sure his role included to track Mbappe's movements in possession with room, and he located him repeatedly.” He was told to get into the box and position himself near just outside the box, where he poses a threat. Additionally, he moved centrally to close the inside channels and cause Barcelona's life very difficult.” Vinicius Tensions Revealed There's no doubting that Madridistas adore Vinicius, his name were sung repeatedly by an enthusiastic home supporters. Yet recently there were numerous stories in recent months that the club would consider allowing his departure should a suitable bid was made. He has a year left on his contract come the end of the season, but negotiations for an extension are at a standstill. The player's reaction when substituted late in the game suggested issues. Post-game, teammates intervened as he tried to approach Yamal. Balague noted, Many will criticize him for good reason, as it demonstrated disrespect for Rodrygo taking his place.” However, from a young age, his life has been in a challenging environment, and he believes that the world is hostile.” Such thinking is hard to change, particularly since you believe on the verge of the top star, but the team drives the axis to Mbappe as the key figure.” During this campaign he has perceived that the organization isn't protecting him. Rumors indicate, perhaps from within, or unchallenged by officials, that they wouldn't be unhappy if someone paid €250 million for him and allow him to leave.” He is aware of this, and after the coach substituted him – justifiably, as he ceased tracking back as required – in Vinicius' head he says ‘why me, why me again?.” It may be challenging to mend relations between the club and him at the moment.” Their System “Falls Apart” After winning each of the last season's Clasicos, the latest display was emblematic of Barca's shaky early form. Injuries have deprived the Barcelona coach of important stars including the Brazilian winger, the striker and Olmo, and the tactical setup is failing when they are missing. The expert commented, Barcelona appear is a little bit less sharp when not in possession, with less desire to win it back, with reduced intensity to get the possession back.” Opponents find it simpler to break them down. Should the defense is not perfect, like on Mbappe's strike because Alejandro Balde played him onside, they receive little support by teammates not challenging those on the ball adequately.” Lamine Yamal, the main threat earlier, was well contained. Key players were below par. The youngster seems not in top condition, perhaps he's suffering from injury issues