Mbappe Back: Real Madrid Player Ratings

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Post on Dec 23, 2024

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Mbappé Back: Real Madrid Player Ratings – A Post-Transfer Analysis

The football world collectively held its breath. Kylian Mbappé, the prodigious talent, had seemingly chosen Real Madrid, only to unexpectedly renew his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. The ripple effect was felt intensely at the Santiago Bernabéu, leaving Real Madrid fans with a mix of disappointment and a renewed focus on the existing squad. But how did each player perform in the wake of this dramatic turn of events? Let's dive into a detailed analysis of Real Madrid player ratings following the Mbappé saga, considering their performances both before and after the announcement.

The Pre-Mbappé Era: A Season of Success Despite the Near Miss

The 2021-2022 season was a resounding success for Real Madrid, culminating in a Champions League victory. However, the shadow of a potential Mbappé signing loomed large. This period saw some players excel under the pressure, while others struggled to maintain consistency.

Key Players & Their Pre-Announcement Ratings:

• Karim Benzema (9.5/10): Benzema's Ballon d'Or-winning season needs no introduction. His performances were consistently breathtaking, showcasing unparalleled skill, composure, and leadership. The Mbappé saga didn't seem to affect his focus; he remained the undisputed leader of the attack.

• Luka Modrić (9.0/10): Despite his advancing age, Modrić continues to defy expectations. His midfield mastery, vision, and tireless work rate remained crucial to Real Madrid's success. He showcased his class even amidst the Mbappé speculation.

• Toni Kroos (8.8/10): The German maestro provided the steady hand in midfield, dictating the tempo and controlling the flow of the game. His consistent performances were vital to Real Madrid's success, unaffected by the off-field drama.

• Vinicius Junior (8.5/10): Vinicius exploded onto the scene, becoming a nightmare for opposing defenses with his pace, dribbling skills, and improved finishing. The Mbappé saga may have added some pressure, but he thrived in it.

• Thibaut Courtois (8.5/10): The Belgian goalkeeper was colossal between the sticks, delivering crucial saves throughout the season, culminating in a stellar Champions League final performance. His consistency remained unaffected.

• Casemiro (8.0/10): Casemiro's defensive prowess and midfield tenacity were irreplaceable. He provided the steel in midfield, shielding the defense effectively. His consistent presence was pivotal to the team's structure.

The Post-Mbappé Era: Adapting and Moving Forward

The announcement that Mbappé wouldn't be joining Real Madrid forced a recalibration. The focus shifted entirely towards the existing squad, demanding a renewed sense of unity and purpose. How did the players respond?

Post-Announcement Performance Adjustments:

• Karim Benzema (9.2/10): While still a top performer, Benzema's numbers might have slightly dipped in the initial period after the Mbappé news, but he quickly recovered, showcasing his mental fortitude. His leadership became even more crucial in guiding the team forward.

• Vinicius Junior (8.7/10): With the pressure of a potential Mbappé partnership lifted, Vinicius seemed to embrace more responsibility, showcasing an even more mature approach to the game. His improved decision-making in the final third became even more evident.

• Federico Valverde (8.5/10): Valverde emerged as a key player, showcasing his improved attacking abilities and tireless work rate. His impact in midfield increased significantly, filling any potential void left by the Mbappé situation.

• Rodrygo Goes (8.2/10): Rodrygo seized the opportunity, demonstrating increased confidence and contributing significantly to both goals and assists. He stepped up to fill the spaces left by the stalled Mbappé transfer, demonstrating his potential.

• Eduardo Camavinga (8.0/10): Camavinga continued his development, showing his dynamism and defensive solidity in midfield. He benefited from the experience and provided crucial support to the more established midfielders.

• Eder Militao (8.0/10): Militao's defensive contributions remained consistent and solid, showcasing his strength and leadership at the back. His performance provided a sense of security to the team.

The Impact on Team Dynamics:

The Mbappé saga, while initially disappointing, might have inadvertently strengthened Real Madrid's team dynamics. The focus shifted inward, strengthening the bonds between existing players and fostering a collective sense of purpose. The team's response demonstrated resilience and unity, crucial elements for success.

Looking Ahead: A Renewed Focus and a Bright Future

While the potential arrival of Mbappé would have undoubtedly added another dimension to the team, Real Madrid's existing squad possesses incredible talent and depth. The post-Mbappé era presents an opportunity to build upon the existing strengths, foster further development within the team, and continue to compete at the highest level. The absence of Mbappé did not derail Real Madrid’s ambitions; instead, it might have fostered a stronger team spirit and a renewed focus on the players already within the squad. The club’s commitment to nurturing young talent and building a cohesive unit proved crucial in navigating this challenge.

Conclusion:

The Mbappé saga was a pivotal moment for Real Madrid. While the potential acquisition of the French superstar would have been significant, the team's response demonstrated remarkable resilience and a renewed focus on their collective strength. The player ratings reflect both the pre- and post-announcement performances, highlighting the contributions of individual players and the team's overall success in navigating this challenging period. The future remains bright for Real Madrid, with a talented squad ready to compete at the highest levels of European football.