🔗 Share this article

This proved to be practically a perfect performance from Xabi Alonso's squad, who defeated Barca two goals to one during the famous derby and extend the gap at the top of the Spanish league by five points.

The English midfielder scored his first league goal and assist this campaign after a difficult spell coming back from a shoulder operation.

Mbappe continued his deadly form in front of goal, while Alonso's tactics in his inaugural derby in the dugout proved like a charm.

But then the Vinicius Junior question came to the forefront another time.

Frustrated at being substituted, Vinicius protested while walking right by the coach and headed down the tunnel, before returning to the bench later.

Alonso System Gets Positive Outcomes from Jude Bellingham

As first Clasicos go, Alonso did well, especially since seven of Madrid's recent managers lost their first La Liga match with Barcelona.

Following the relaxed approach from the previous coach did not deliver in the previous campaign, his structured approach delivered an important victory.

An expert observed, His plan was perfect. Real Madrid performed excellently, and Barca struggled because of Madrid's tactics.”

Defensively, they pushed up as much as possible, and when bypassed, they fell back with discipline, all players including Vinicius.”

“They defended in two layers with a gap of five to 10 metres. Barcelona could not find a way through.”

The new system looks to be beneficial for the midfielder, as he previously was expected to carry the midfield in midfield and more.

On paper the 22-year-old started wide right, but in practice he had the freedom to come inside and support Mbappe or get into scoring positions.

The analyst stated, Employing Camavinga in central midfield, it brings greater energy and additional options to shut down the channels.”

As a result the team to position Bellingham on the right flank. I'm sure he would have been asked to track the runs of Mbappe in possession with room, connecting with him a few times.”

His instructions included to move into the penalty area and operate on the outskirts of the area, where he poses a threat. He also drifted in to close the inside channels creating Barcelona's life very difficult.”

Strained Relations Exposed

Undoubtedly that the fans love Vinicius, his name rang out on several occasions by an enthusiastic home supporters.

Yet multiple various accounts over the past period that the club could entertain allowing his departure should a suitable bid was made.

He will have one season to go under his current terms at the end of the campaign, but talks over a new deal have stalled.

Vinicius' behavior when substituted in the second half suggested tension. When the match ended, teammates intervened when he moved toward Yamal.

The analyst commented, He will face backlash for good reason, as it demonstrated disrespect for Rodrygo who replaced him.”

Yet, growing up, his life has been in a hostile world, and he believes that he faces opposition.”

“That mentality is difficult to shake, notably when you believe near number one in the world, then the club redirects attention to Mbappe as the key figure.”

Recently he has perceived that Real Madrid isn't protecting him. There are stories, perhaps from within, or unchallenged by officials, that they would be open if someone paid €250 million to sign him and sell him.”

This affects him, so when he was taken off – justifiably, since he wasn't defending as expected – in Vinicius' head he questions why single me out?’.”

Building bridges will be tough to mend relations among the parties and him at the moment.”

Barca's Approach “Struggles”

Having triumphed in each of the recent Clasicos, the latest display represented their uncertain beginning of the season.

Injuries have robbed the Barcelona coach of crucial contributors including Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, and the tactical setup is failing in their absence.

Balague commented, Barcelona appear lack sharpness defensively, not as eager to regain possession, with reduced intensity in pressing.”

“It's easier to create chances against them. If the defensive line is not perfect, which was the case the Mbappe goal as Balde kept him onside, the midfield doesn't assist by teammates not closing down opponents in possession adequately.”

The young talent, tormentor-in-chief of Real last season, was kept largely in check.

Key players did not perform well. Yamal seems not in top condition, maybe due to a groin issue