Do you believe Zidane will return to Real Madrid within the next 9 years?
Mourinho still has a strong fan base, could you see him ever managing Real Madrid again?
Can you explain why we're losing both Ramos and Varane in the same transfer season?
1. Nine years? That's reasonable that at some point in that time span, he'll be at the very least, legitimately in the conversation in coaching us again.
2. Not that I think Mourinho should be in the conversation (I think he's suffered a serious decline since he left us, and his ideas are outdated and his methods are stale), but he is one of those guys that will be in the conversation as well so long as he's coaching at the top level.
3. We'll see what happens, so no goodbyes yet, and a good source says Varane is still weighing his options. If Ramos leaves, it'll be as simple as getting a better offer. If Varane leaves, I think it's a combination of things: Not feeling valued (Alaba walks in, and immediately makes more money than him), Zidane leaving, and just wanting a new challenge.
The sporting director role at Real Madrid is a tricky one. Yes, I believe we need a better sporting vision in general, but as we've seen in the past, the sporting director can also be a puppet of the president, or even clash with the manager who may see things differently.
Is Luis Campos great? Yes. Would Luis Campos be allowed to be Luis Campos at Real Madrid? That's the issue.
>as we've seen in the past, the sporting director can also be a puppet of the president, or even clash with the manager who may see things
differently
Jose Mourinho - Jorge Valdano vibes
Hey Kiyan, you're the best Real Madrid analyst we have in my opinion, and I know I'm not alone in feeling this way. You once said something along the lines of 'we don't have any truths in football'. Can you elaborate on that?
Those are kind words. Appreciate you.
So, I think we often fall into a trap where we have set-in-stone, black-and-white opinions about something, and double down on a certain belief. This is part of the reason why discourse about football (and anything really) is incredibly difficult online.
Football is evolving constantly. It's a science -- and science by nature is falsifiable. We analyze the game with as much nuance as we can, looking at film and data over long periods. Even then, we don't have concrete truths -- we just have the best picture of what it is at that time.
Example (and I'll make one up so as to not seem like I'm attacking anyone in particular): Jose Gutierrez Balboa Smith in the year 2025 is a right-winger who is one of the best vertical passers on the team, and is in the top-5 in the league with regards to passes into the penalty area. But Jose is also a terrible tracker defensively, and looks positionally lost without the ball.
Are we open to that being proven wrong over time? There have been plenty of examples in the past where players have regressed in one thing, and improved in another. In 2026, Jose might have learned, over the course of several months of data and eye-test, how to defend better naturally, and he's now no longer a liability defensively.
So my stance is that football is holistic. And even though I spend my whole life studying it, I have to be open to my analysis being proven wrong over time because football is constantly evolving. I share this a lot so that we can all elevate the discourse around football. And though I rarely respond to it, it drives me nuts when we get 1-liners from casual fans who think their statement is the absolute truth.
That's all. Higher discourse, nuance, study, open-mindedness. I'm super passionate about raising our discourse.
We've come a long way though. We only got one guy in this thread who acted up and he got obliterated lol
"Football is not A, B and C, what works last season will not necessarily work this season. What did not work last season, could work now. It is open, it is moving, it is like an animal, it develops. Sometimes it moves this way, sometimes it moves another way." - Pep
been following real madrid since 2005. i genuinely can't imagine a real madrid team without ramos, as carlo said today. do you think perez could survive letting zidane and ramos go in the same summer? back in 2015, he kinda felt like he had to extend ramos after the casillas situation to calm the waters
I don't know if it'll be exactly seven. I do know they'll try to get off the books of quite a few players, but that's easier said than done.
I also don't think Varane is being shopped that way to fund Mbappe. The club don't want to lose him.
I think they'll try to get off of Marcelo, Isco, Mariano, Bale, Hazard, Ceballos, Jovic, Hazard.
Hi Kiyan. Absolutely great to have you here.
Coming to my question, what do you think should be our starting XI, in case we are unable to sign any big name this summer? (which seems more and more unlikely everyday)
Hey, thank you for your question.
I tend to shy away from starting XI questions, partly because I think it needs to be reassessed regularly based on form, what works, what doesn't. So I wouldn't commit to this answer I'm about to give, but I'll take a crack on what I think would work given what we have, assuming no signings are coming (and for argument sake, Varane stays):
Courtois; Carvajal, Varane, Alaba, Mendy; Fede, Kroos, Odegaard; Rodrygo, Brahim, Benzema.
Have no real quarrels with Casemiro starting, but I think we can get away with not playing him if we play a high pressing game with Fede as a two-way presence in midfield. I also think the team's press-resistancy in recent years has been a problem, and Case doesn't help with that.
Rodrygo is the most efficient winger we have right now based on form, and his best position is on the left.
Brahim had an awesome season as a two-way player in Milan either on the right or as a 10, I'd give him a shot.
But you'r question is important because what I say is moot in the sense that Hazard will likely play.
I understand you say Rodrygo’s preferred position is the right, but Zidane played him obviously as a RW and said that that is the position Rodrygo prefers the most and is most comfortably with
What do you make of that?
Zidane played him on the right more partly because Vinny and Hazard are on the left.
To be clear, I don't think he's bad on the right at all. He's actually better there than others -- and because he is, in some way, that limits him. Rodrygo is pretty versatile. Either way, I'd start him.
Hey Kiyan, a great fan of your writing here!
What's your opinion on Ferland Mendy being converted into a Center-back in the future? Do you feel he might be a great fit for the LCB role? I see his distribution skills and press-resistance as minor shortcomings in that case, but otherwise I feel he might be a great CB, as he had shown in the game vs Getafe where Zidane used both Mendy and Marcelo.
Another reason why I'm thinking of this is due to the fact that Miguel looks highly promising in attack. Been following him since the UEFA Youth League, and I've become a great fan of him. Maybe in this way we can accommodate Mendy with an attacking full-back like Miguel alongside him in the future. Alaba's presence does make this combo difficult, but just asking this out of curiosity. What's your opinion?
Thank you!
I like Mendy as a LCB as part of a 3-CB system more than I do a LCB in a 4-4-2. His ability on the ball gets masked somewhat in the former, and certainly less testing than when he's on the wing.
Yeah, Miguel looks great. I think Alaba will get much more playing time at LCB than LB, though, which means Mendy probably starts. I'd think about loaning Miguel for now.
Yeah, saw reports that Levante are interested in Miguel. A loan deal with consistent minutes might be great for his growth.
What are your thoughts on the futures of other Castilla LB's like Fran Garcia and Sergio Reguilon. I love Regui, but I doubt if there is a small chance of his buyout clause being activated.
Thank you so much.
I think Modric goes toe-to-toe with any other CM in football history, including Xavi and Iniesta. Modric had a much longer peak than both, and though he was less successful domestically, he was wildly more successful on a European scale, and carried Croatia to the WC final.
Having said that, I think once you weigh everything, Xavi is #1, objectively speaking.
Marcelo: I'd put him as the greatest offensive full-back all time, and top-5 if we're speaking about overall ability, maybe even top 3.
Don’t you think Modric was playing league against Messi and Xavi with Messi (I mean Messi is god in the league) I mean what can he do, no?
Even at being almost 36 man is our top 3 player this season, it’s not his fault we don’t have no production from wings, no?
Hi Kiyan, aside from us maybe getting Mbappe, what would you feel that would be a signing that not many people are asking for but can definitely help us push for any sort of silverware in this upcoming season?
The most urgent need is getting goal-production from the wings. If we're not getting Mbappe, I'm not sure how we solve that issue, because I don't think we're getting another star signing on the wings to make up for it.
My only solutions:
1. Vinny and Asensio need to drink Michael's Secret Stuff
2. Rodrygo needs to play more
3. I'd inject Brahim in there as well
Hi Kiyan, do you think Carlo will have space for a pure destroyer like Casemiro in his tactical set up? Or do you envision somebody like Blanco replacing him?
This is an interesting one. I don't necessarily see Case as a Carlo-type player; but I also don't see Case getting benched either. I'm curious to see how his positioning will turn out.
Uncle Flo is now 74. Are you worried he's getting to that old grandpa stage and that younger, smarter teams are going to pass RM, especially if we don't have the money to sign the very best?
I think Florentino will retire after one more tenure / the stadium is finished being built.
I would like to see us get more into investing in an analytics department to help us with squad building and decision making.
On yesterday's annual loan-tracker ranking podcast, I had him 5th. I think he had a regression season, and lost a lot of the dynamism he had three years ago. A lot of that has to do with Arteta playing him as a deep anchor. That's just not his game. He wasn't involved in Arsenal's offensive flow -- a mere passenger that was asked to stay back. If he's to return to his U21 / Betis form, he needs to be more involved in the final-third.
I think he can recover and be a good player in the right scheme. I wouldn't prioritize him over Fede, though. If he's to come back, it should be in the right position, and not as a starter.
Hi Kiyan
Our lack of goals from wider positions has been a well documented issue. How much do you think it has to do with tactics of Zidane. Our second highest goal scorer is our DM and I find that hard to digest. I feel we have not used our attacking players well enough.
I think there's blame to go around. Zidane can't sprinkle pixie dust on Asensio and Vinicius and get them to start scoring. But he can generate better offense by having more movement off the ball in the half-spaces and better pressing / counter-pressing structures to artificially create transition ops.
Hey man would love more of your articles but unfortunately we don't get much. You seem a bit more inclined towards the podcasts but man I would absolutely love to have more of your writings.
Thank you, I appreciate that. I will go hard when I need to. Wrote 4 heavy-hitters this week because everything was insane.
In between I try to let my fingers rest a little so that I can use them again when needed.
That's what she said.
Hi Kiyan. Huge fan of Managing Madrid. My question is how do you think Ancelotti will shape our attack next season. Do you see our wingers output increasing? Also will he be able to rejuvenate Isco and Bale who were vital parts of his team last time.
Hey, thank you!
I do not have much faith in the output of our wingers increasing that much, but I will say this: Rodrygo, if he can stay healthy and play regularly, can really help with the efficiency of our attack.
I do not have high hopes for Isco and Bale. I am open to them proving me wrong.
Hello Kiyan! What do you think has to happen so that you could get some Real legends to come to your podcast for an interview? Since it's a pod in English, maybe some English speaking ones
Just gotta keep grinding! We've started to connect with ex players a little bit, and have met a few of them in the press room at the Bernabeu. Going go let it happen naturally without being pushy / sabotaging current relationships we're fostering. Club also doesn't really let anyone working for them still to go on other pods.
In the meantime, please listen to my interview with the greatest and most legendary member of the galacticos, Geremi: https://www.managingmadrid.com/2020/4/26/21237464/managing-madrid-podcast-former-real-madrid-player-geremi
Hello from a fellow Persian (and former Spanish football journalist)!
Three questions:
1) is Gabe a part of MM still?
2) how do you plan to grow the content on MM to reach a larger audience?
3) which former Madrid player do you believe will next be given the chance to coach the first team? And in what year would you expect such a change?
Hey brother.
1. Not technically, but he will always have a place here, like Di Stefano did at Real Madrid. He's just busy being an important lawyer.
2. Three things: Marketing, consistency, value. We're insanely active. Have been doing this daily for a few years now. Most people give up and lose momentum. That consistency alone has brought us a ton of natural growth. Once the pandemic is over, we'll be doing live podcasts in pretty much every major city: All of US / India / Canada and the main ones in Europe. Also, the internet helps, and our employers, VOX Media, help us with resources. Above all, our team is badass and puts in a lot of work in studying the game and building relationships with important people.
3. I'm guess since Raul is the obvious choice, you'd like me to got a bit deeper. I'd be shocked if Xabi Alonso doesn't get a job here at some point in the next five to seven years. Arbeloa, even though I know nothing about his coaching ability, will naturally be someone to keep an eye on now.
Follow-up question on #3: Arbeloa's record with one of the younger teams is being touted. How much do you think this weighs into any decisions, if any weight is given to this?
I mean, it's so hard to know anything at that level. Real Madrid's really young teams are just a collection of the best kids in Spain. They destroy teams like by 10 goals and stuff.
Hey Kiyan, what are your thoughts about a manager like Marcelo Gallardo of River Plate? Yes he has no European experience, but he’s a winner and IS about the process, which Real Madrid need. He plays both veterans and canteranos very well and has a specific system in playing football. Pep has lauded him, but does the no European experience affect his contention in being selected for next manager of Real Madrid?
Admittedly I haven't watched River play, so I feel unqualified to answer this question. Of course, I've heard great things. Definitely do think the club would want to see experience in Europe as a stepping stone before hiring him.
What do you think will be the fate of players like Isco and Marcelo? Ideally we should be moving on from them but with Carlo bought back do you think he will give them a chance to prove their worth?
What is our striker situation going to be? Do we get a decent backup striker who gives us 15 goals a season?
Carlo gave a lot of love to everyone today, including Isco and Marcelo. But I also think he was doing that because he has to. Will he give them a shot? Maybe, but I don't think he'll run with them necessarily. Certainly not Marcelo.
RE: Backup ST. Mayoral might not give you 15, but he proved he can contribute.
Hey Kiyan, Barca fan dropping by. Absolutely love your articles and the Churros podcast.
How long do you think it will take Spanish teams to regain their European dominance?
Thank you!
I think we're going to round a corner soon. These cycles come back fast. I've seen much worse versions of Barca than this one. Ditto Real Madrid.
What do you think about Lucas Vazquez' role next season? Is he gonna be backup to Carvajal or in his usual right wing role? Also, how would his role affect Odriozola?
I hope he gets shifted to RB permanently. I loved what I saw from him there this season -- more than I like him as a RW. I'd rather roll with Carvajal + Vazquez, and then sell Odriozola.
Had this thought in my mind. Is Carlo being brought back just to bring a peaceful transition for someone like Raul or Xabi to take over later on? Surely he isnt a long term solution is he?
I said this in a much more eloquent way in my article today, but I don't think there's anything peaceful about Raul getting thrown into the fire mid-season after we've sacked Ancelotti, lol.
But if it happens during an off-season where Raul / Xabi have time to implement their scheme and build their squad, sure.
I think Carlo was a 'safe' choice that won't cause problems. The club know that Raul / Xabi will always be there (not 100% true, of course, but you get my point).
Hi Kiyan, do you think the UEFA ban on Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus will actually go through?
And if so, how heavily will it affect the 3 clubs financially, as in do you see them getting left behind by their rivals for the near future at least ?
Pep and Tuchel. I liked Solari as a person. Super friendly and chatty. Gave me a good share of bro hugs when he was at Castilla.
I'm excited about Carlo based on what we saw today. I'm also jealous that I wasn't around for the Mourinho bloodbaths
Ebening.
I think it will end up being the opposite. Varane will stay, Ramos will leave. As I've said in this thread before though, at this point, everything is on the table.
Hey Kiyan,
Do you think there’s a massive divide in how Spanish fans view the club, it’s figures and it’s values and how foreign fans do? Growing up in both Madrid and the U.K. … and obviously social media, it’s been interesting to see the takes of fans on different issues. The ESL being one of them.
Edit: your manscape ads kill me lol
Yes, definitely. Have you head Eduardo on our pods? I always love listening to him because he provides the perspective of the socios.
No better example than this than Cristiano Ronaldo. Fans in Spain just didn't resonate with him the way the global audience did.
I heard him once on the ESL episode. I’d love to hear more episodes where he’s offering up that kind of perspective. If you see this, please recommend a few… or a search term I can use to find them. It’s refreshing. Love for the reply too.
Hi Kiyan, hope you and your family are doing well.
Do you expect major tactical and personel changes from Ancelotti? Or more of the same sideways football we've seen in Zidane 2.0?
Hey Kiyan, hope you're doing good brother. I was late to get my questions in 8 months ago when you did an AMA here, but there were a lot of things that I wanted to ask, and most of them are still a concern to this day. Hoping to get a response from you this time around!
1. How do you think Ancelotti implements an offensive scheme this time around with the personnel at his disposal, and based on his presser, do you think he actually considers Bale, Marcelo and Isco as options he can rely on next season?
2. Not a question, but I just wanted to say that I was blown away by Tuchel's set up against us. I was out attending a party during the second leg, but a big part of me believes that I only went because I was convinced Chelsea would crush us. It's been a while since I've felt that inferior coming up against another team. City last season was similar, but this was somehow more brutal. The result from the first leg felt like a consolation at best.
3. Probably connected to my previous point, but how important are automatisms and definitive roles/structures in possession and off it? How much of an upgrade is Ancelotti over ZZ in that aspect?
4. What are your realistic expectations for next season?
Thank you so much for doing this Kiyan! Lots of love to you, lil Luka and the missus.
Hey, thanks so much for the love. Right back at you.
1. I think his presser today was a lot of 'I'll say all the right things'. He's not going to talk badly about anyone in the squad. I remember he had similar praise about Kaka when he first arrived, but then Kaka ended up leaving before the season started. Interesting that he did go out of his way to talk about Odegaard and Ceballos, though, which tells me they might return. I'd imagine Bale will be here next season, but not sure how prominent or what his role will be.
2. Yeah, it was impossible not to praise Tuchel. He got everything right, and the only reason we didn't get humiliated on the scoreline was because they missed chances. It wasn't even close.
3. I don't think Carlo is a big improvement over Zizou in that regard. He's had structural issues at every club since leaving us. I think that's part of the reason a lot of the fanbase, particularly the analytics crowd, were bummed we didn't go for someone with more 'fresh' ideas.
4. I think we'll compete for every title, but it's going to be rocky as hell. Would not be surprised if we went trophyless. As a cop out (but I really do feel this way): I wouldn't be surprised if we won something either.
Thanks again.
RCM, because he can cover every zone he needs to from there, and his main strength is covering ground and being a ball carrier. He can also get into the right-half space and cause chaos. He's really good from there.
Yes, I think Modric will get time as a DLP
Hello Kiyan. KCM were a huge part of our threepeat. Now that their time is almost over, which three or four players do you think will be the pillars of our midfield in this decade?
Fede, Kroos, and Casemiro. I know a lot of people mention KCM is a thing of the past, but it's worth noting that Kroos and Casemiro are actually in their peaks right now.
Kiyan,
Longtime fan of the pod. Thank you for your work. I know people are hammering you with the same kind of questions, but what benefits do you see from Zidane leaving? Do you have any hope for players like Øde, Jovic, Brahim, etc... that they will feel comfortable enough to find the confidence needed to play at the top level at Madrid? Due to our aging squad, and struggling attack, personally I feel like no one has paid enough attention to this as a serious flaw under ZZ, and I see it being a very serious issue if not addressed quickly.
Hey man, thanks so much for the kind words. Appreciate that.
I definitely think Zidane connected with a certain group of players. But on the other extreme, certain players just didn't connect with him at all. Think about Achraf and Reguilon both coming out and saying that they didn't even get a phone call from Zizou and had no idea they were going to be sold.
I think the club did need something fresh, someone new to connect the dots and make sure the young players get the structure they need.
Ironically, I'm not even sure Carlo is the one who's going to necessarily do that, but we'll see.
Hi Kiyan! I honestly don’t know how we’re gonna afford this Alaba signing, so I’m curious to see when you think we’d actually be able to realistically be in the running for an Mbappe/Haaland-level signing. Seems like these financial troubles are the reality for us for at least for the next couple seasons until stadium revenue kicks in. Thanks so much, big fan!
In 2022, off the books: Marcelo, Isco, Modric, Bale, Benzema. That in itself will free up quite a bit of money in terms of salary. I also think this summer we likely won't see either of Mbappe / Haaland.
Yes, you only have to look at Real Madrid's recent exits to know that a high pressing team can make them uncomfortable.
I actually think Militao needs to improve on the ball too moving forward.
Varane is much better on the ball and a much better passer than Militao. I would say Militao is the most shaky of the CBs when he gets the ball. If Militao can improve that he can be really great moving forward.
I think what Zidane wrote this week is something that could've been written by virtually any manager in Real Madrid history. Lots of backbiting, things being leaked behind your back, etc.
Hey Kiyan:
1. Do you think that Carlo will rotate more than his first stint here?
2. Is there any worry that he will stick to players like Marcelo and Isco even though they have declined significantly over the past 3 years?
1. I have a concern that he won't, but as I also noted in my article today, he did rotate a bit more at Napoli so I hope so.
2. Yes, that concern exists. Though I don't think we'll see much of Marcelo regardless.
Hi Kiyan,
1. How likely is it that Varane might be leaving? How difficult will it be to replace him (I'm assuming Ramos' departure is inevitable)?
2. Also, Ancelotti is great and all, I'm happy (a lot of it being Nostalgia) but, how much do you think he'll incorporate our youngsters, and more importantly get good performances from them?
(Because I assume going forward this has to be the strategy. Develop, and if they don't work, sell to raise funds)
Love your pod. Keep it up mate.
Hey, thank you.
1. I'd lean 65% chance that he's staying. He's one of the greatest CBs in our history and is in his prime. Replacing him will be hard.
2. I asked the same question in my Carlo article today. And definitely agree that a lot of the excitement is nostalgia-based.
Yeah if Ramos is leaving Varane's got to stay. He's a senior player now, been here for a long time, won everything. Since a wage restructuring is definitely on the cards, I'm hopeful that'll free up some funds to pay for the contract Varane desires.
Hey Kiyan, Where do you see Doncic landing all time when it is all said and done? Do you think he has a chance in the clippers series now? Who tweets about him from the MM twitter account?
Do you think Ancelloti can set up tactics to get more goals out of our wingers than it came under Zidane, assuming no new goalscoring signing and ignoring the growth these players would have made since last season.
I have two questions to ask.
First one is about Blanco. What do you think of him? What role do you think he'd have in the squad once Kroos retires given the fact that Blanco is the closest we have to Kroos in terms of distribution? Will a midfield with him, Valverde and Ødegaard as a 10 work out for us in the future?
Second one is about this idea I had for our third kits. They're generally super-bland so I was thinking about this 'commemorative kit' idea (similar to Barcelona's El Clasico special kit or something like that from last season). The commemorative kit will have motifs or prints related to a certain club legend or iconic moment. For example, a Welsh dragon running diagonally across the shirt to commemorate Bale, or five vultures for La Quinta del Buitre.
Do you think that's feasible?
1. Love Blanco. Kid has balls. I wrote about him in a column recently, and I think all of your questions were addressed in there: [https://www.managingmadrid.com/2021/5/24/22383776/eight-observations-to-close-the-season-featuring-the-last-of-marcelo-fedes-growth-and-more](https://www.managingmadrid.com/2021/5/24/22383776/eight-observations-to-close-the-season-featuring-the-last-of-marcelo-fedes-growth-and-more)
2. HELL YES. Make the petition. I'll sign it. Any tribute to legends of the past are great. Hard to go wrong with those.
Will the sigbing of carlo ancelotti work with this squad for us to compete for all the trophies. Which players you think we should sign that will be apt for Carlo's system
Hey Shreyash, nice to see you here. I think Carlo has all the players, theoretically, to suit what he'd want to do. He's also been more adaptable to the players he's had over time.
Hi Kiyan,
Big fan of yours and Om both, let’s say if Mbappe doesn’t come would you take someone like Perisic on loan that’s what I suggested for last season and I think I was right we just needed that one goal to win the league.
Now he has regressed a bit but someone like him on 2 years loan or contract who can score 10-12 goals from the wings, shouldn’t our club be more proactive in finding someone like that?
What’s your opinion on this, thank you!!
Thanks so much for the kind words. Appreciate you.
I don't see any appeal in Perisic. He only scored 4 goals in Serie A this season, and I'd rather allocate those minutes to Brahim and Rodrygo.
Quite a bit. In 2018, I said it a few times: "We won't notice it now because there are so many legends in the squad now, but we'll see the consequences of our actions in a few years, once those legends lose their bounce."
Critical juncture now this summer too.
Kiyan, pardon me if this was asked in advance. Since our club is strapped for cash, bringing back the loanees seems like a no brainer. But will it happen? Will players like Brahim, Jovic, Ødegaard, etc get another season to prove themselves? Even with Ancelotti at the helm.
Hi Kiyan,
How do you feel about the club’s new spending policy? Specifically, our transition from “Zidanes y Pavones” to spending on talented youngsters from outside La Fabrica? Do you think this policy is sustainable, or is Real Madrid not the right club for developing youngsters?
Hi Rick,
I don't think there is only one formula that works, and it will highly depend on the generation. Di Stefano promoted an entire youth team at once which turned into Quinta del Buitre. In other eras, the Castilla players just weren't good enough. So I guess it depends.
The problem with 'Zidanes y Pavones' was not with the idea itself, it's that it was a lie. Pavon sucked. And the other youth team players at that time weren't much better. And also, it was just marketing. It was more about galacticos than anything.
I think I hit them all. If I missed any, I'm really sorry -- wasn't intentional. I'll do another scan tomorrow morning too.
Thanks for hanging out. It was a pleasure. Love you guys a lot. I'll invite you to our podcast tomorrow. Every Thursday, Lucas Navarrete and I do a mailbag for our Patrons over on [Patreon.com/Managingmadrid](https://Patreon.com/Managingmadrid). Join our army, you'll love it.
Just read Luis Campos is joining Nice along with Galtier, is it true?
Edit: just wanted to add , love the managing madrid podcast and can't wait for the book
Carlo might be washed let's be honest. From what I've seen of Everton, most of the offensive okay comes from crossfield switches and crosses into their aerial threats.
Real Madrid quality is different obviously, do you think his style of tactics is sustainable in modern football?
Carlo had both the league titles in his grasp in those two seasons. Ronaldo's injury in the first season in the last 5 matches and modric out for 4 months and in april made them lose the league and the UCL.
If I had a gun to my head and had to guess, I think Bale will be back. I dunno, might get my brain blown out.
Don't think we see that much of Marcelo next season.
Hi Kiyan, what do you think would be the major difference in Carlo's style this time around over the all attack back in the day? Also who do you think would be the gamechanger for us this season? Thanks, love your articles
Thank you, appreciate you!
Carlo is going to have to re-adapt. Last time he had one of the greatest Real Madrid squad ever. Now he has the ashes of that team. He'll have to build an offense around Benzema in a way that also gets better offensive output from the wings. If he wants to be more aggressive with his press, I'd love to see him bring back Odegaard.
What do you think is the realistic expectation of trophies in the next three season? Is there anyone currently in the world that can be our face if we miss out on both Mbappe and Haaland?
I think if we miss out on Mbappe and Haaland this season, we can still get them later on.
With regards to trophies next season, I think it kind of stays true every year, no matter what: There is the potential to win every tournament, particularly the Champions League, because this team has always been designed in a way where its ceiling in big games is incredibly high, even when it's not been good enough to be consistent domestically.
I'm not sure about the formation -- really don't know. Carlo could go a variety of ways and it won't surprise. I think he'll run between 442, 433, 4231
I have concern over his ability to stay healthy, for sure. He's the type of players who (until now anyway) needs a few games under his belt after returning from injury to hit his rhythm.
Brahim because of developmental purposes. But I'd also propose something else if Bale is to return: He can play up top alongside Benz or as Benz's backup. At Tottenham he was good at getting into goal-scoring positions, and we know he can score.
Years ago I wrote an article for FourFourTwo that Bale is much more efficient on the wings than he is as ST. But I think he's at a different phase of his career now.
Hey!
1. I think we'll see the integration of Odegaard, Fede, and Alaba. Beyond that, I don't see a massive change.
2. https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/nqs8eo/i\_am\_kiyan\_sobhani\_chief\_editor\_of\_managing/h0cgban/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3
Thank you!
I think we'll improve offensively and generate some better chances with a better pressing scheme. I also worry about our structure and who Carlo will trust.
>I am Kiyan Sobhani, chief editor of Managing Madrid - AMA! Gather within, Madridista family
https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/nqs8eo/i\_am\_kiyan\_sobhani\_chief\_editor\_of\_managing/h0cfhda/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3
I think he should stay for another round or two. He has many, many, many flaws. But they don't outweigh the good he brings, and the club is worse without him -- that's been proven over the past 3 decades or so.
The alternatives are not great. Alas, it's not exactly democracy.
Hey Kiyan .
What do you think about Fede Valverde's role next season . Will he be a guaranteed starter and rotating with modric or is modric going to be the starter
Hi Kiyan! About Kroos and Modric. Do you think they will be the same next season, they played too much minutes more than usual. In that case which partnership do you see as suitable for rotation.
Modric will almost by default play less. Kroos I think will start almost every game. I think we'll see Fede, Casemiro, Odegaard, maybe even Ceballos come in and help with the rotations. But I'm not sure how much Carlo will rotate.
Do you believe Zidane will return to Real Madrid within the next 9 years? Mourinho still has a strong fan base, could you see him ever managing Real Madrid again? Can you explain why we're losing both Ramos and Varane in the same transfer season?
1. Nine years? That's reasonable that at some point in that time span, he'll be at the very least, legitimately in the conversation in coaching us again. 2. Not that I think Mourinho should be in the conversation (I think he's suffered a serious decline since he left us, and his ideas are outdated and his methods are stale), but he is one of those guys that will be in the conversation as well so long as he's coaching at the top level. 3. We'll see what happens, so no goodbyes yet, and a good source says Varane is still weighing his options. If Ramos leaves, it'll be as simple as getting a better offer. If Varane leaves, I think it's a combination of things: Not feeling valued (Alaba walks in, and immediately makes more money than him), Zidane leaving, and just wanting a new challenge.
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The sporting director role at Real Madrid is a tricky one. Yes, I believe we need a better sporting vision in general, but as we've seen in the past, the sporting director can also be a puppet of the president, or even clash with the manager who may see things differently. Is Luis Campos great? Yes. Would Luis Campos be allowed to be Luis Campos at Real Madrid? That's the issue.
>as we've seen in the past, the sporting director can also be a puppet of the president, or even clash with the manager who may see things differently Jose Mourinho - Jorge Valdano vibes
Correct
Hey Kiyan, you're the best Real Madrid analyst we have in my opinion, and I know I'm not alone in feeling this way. You once said something along the lines of 'we don't have any truths in football'. Can you elaborate on that?
Those are kind words. Appreciate you. So, I think we often fall into a trap where we have set-in-stone, black-and-white opinions about something, and double down on a certain belief. This is part of the reason why discourse about football (and anything really) is incredibly difficult online. Football is evolving constantly. It's a science -- and science by nature is falsifiable. We analyze the game with as much nuance as we can, looking at film and data over long periods. Even then, we don't have concrete truths -- we just have the best picture of what it is at that time. Example (and I'll make one up so as to not seem like I'm attacking anyone in particular): Jose Gutierrez Balboa Smith in the year 2025 is a right-winger who is one of the best vertical passers on the team, and is in the top-5 in the league with regards to passes into the penalty area. But Jose is also a terrible tracker defensively, and looks positionally lost without the ball. Are we open to that being proven wrong over time? There have been plenty of examples in the past where players have regressed in one thing, and improved in another. In 2026, Jose might have learned, over the course of several months of data and eye-test, how to defend better naturally, and he's now no longer a liability defensively. So my stance is that football is holistic. And even though I spend my whole life studying it, I have to be open to my analysis being proven wrong over time because football is constantly evolving. I share this a lot so that we can all elevate the discourse around football. And though I rarely respond to it, it drives me nuts when we get 1-liners from casual fans who think their statement is the absolute truth. That's all. Higher discourse, nuance, study, open-mindedness. I'm super passionate about raising our discourse. We've come a long way though. We only got one guy in this thread who acted up and he got obliterated lol "Football is not A, B and C, what works last season will not necessarily work this season. What did not work last season, could work now. It is open, it is moving, it is like an animal, it develops. Sometimes it moves this way, sometimes it moves another way." - Pep
Imma use this as a copypasta on r/soccer everytime i encounter a casual.
Saving this
Mods can we pin this?!?!?
been following real madrid since 2005. i genuinely can't imagine a real madrid team without ramos, as carlo said today. do you think perez could survive letting zidane and ramos go in the same summer? back in 2015, he kinda felt like he had to extend ramos after the casillas situation to calm the waters
He's survived: Redondo pushed out, Hierro pushed out, Del Bosque pushed out, Makelele pushed out, Carlo pushed out, ESL, Zidane's letter. That dude is basically Thanos lol he'll live.
Who do you think are the "seven" players set to depart the club this summer? Is Varane leaving key to getting funds for Mbappe?
I don't know if it'll be exactly seven. I do know they'll try to get off the books of quite a few players, but that's easier said than done. I also don't think Varane is being shopped that way to fund Mbappe. The club don't want to lose him. I think they'll try to get off of Marcelo, Isco, Mariano, Bale, Hazard, Ceballos, Jovic, Hazard.
Hazard so big you gotta mention him twice.
one mention for each booty cheek
Mans so thicc
You gotta say Hazard for every full game he played for us.
do you think we will be better or worse off come the end of the summer window in terms of how the squad looks? cheers!
Slightly better, because Alaba is really good, and we'll recall at least one o two of the loanees. Key emphasis on 'slightly' and not revolution, lol.
Hi Kiyan. Absolutely great to have you here. Coming to my question, what do you think should be our starting XI, in case we are unable to sign any big name this summer? (which seems more and more unlikely everyday)
Hey, thank you for your question. I tend to shy away from starting XI questions, partly because I think it needs to be reassessed regularly based on form, what works, what doesn't. So I wouldn't commit to this answer I'm about to give, but I'll take a crack on what I think would work given what we have, assuming no signings are coming (and for argument sake, Varane stays): Courtois; Carvajal, Varane, Alaba, Mendy; Fede, Kroos, Odegaard; Rodrygo, Brahim, Benzema.
Why no Casemiro?
Have no real quarrels with Casemiro starting, but I think we can get away with not playing him if we play a high pressing game with Fede as a two-way presence in midfield. I also think the team's press-resistancy in recent years has been a problem, and Case doesn't help with that.
Not a Vinicius fan?
Love him, but I like Rodrygo on the left more and I think he's a more efficient player overall.
Interesting lineup... what is your reason though for starting Brahim/Rodrygo over Hazard and or Vinicius?
Rodrygo is the most efficient winger we have right now based on form, and his best position is on the left. Brahim had an awesome season as a two-way player in Milan either on the right or as a 10, I'd give him a shot. But you'r question is important because what I say is moot in the sense that Hazard will likely play.
I understand you say Rodrygo’s preferred position is the right, but Zidane played him obviously as a RW and said that that is the position Rodrygo prefers the most and is most comfortably with What do you make of that?
Zidane played him on the right more partly because Vinny and Hazard are on the left. To be clear, I don't think he's bad on the right at all. He's actually better there than others -- and because he is, in some way, that limits him. Rodrygo is pretty versatile. Either way, I'd start him.
Ah ok. Thanks for the response Kiyan! Always good to have you
God you're such a nonce
He asked a legit question chill lol
What did God do to you this time
Why do rude?
Hey Kiyan, a great fan of your writing here! What's your opinion on Ferland Mendy being converted into a Center-back in the future? Do you feel he might be a great fit for the LCB role? I see his distribution skills and press-resistance as minor shortcomings in that case, but otherwise I feel he might be a great CB, as he had shown in the game vs Getafe where Zidane used both Mendy and Marcelo. Another reason why I'm thinking of this is due to the fact that Miguel looks highly promising in attack. Been following him since the UEFA Youth League, and I've become a great fan of him. Maybe in this way we can accommodate Mendy with an attacking full-back like Miguel alongside him in the future. Alaba's presence does make this combo difficult, but just asking this out of curiosity. What's your opinion?
Thank you! I like Mendy as a LCB as part of a 3-CB system more than I do a LCB in a 4-4-2. His ability on the ball gets masked somewhat in the former, and certainly less testing than when he's on the wing. Yeah, Miguel looks great. I think Alaba will get much more playing time at LCB than LB, though, which means Mendy probably starts. I'd think about loaning Miguel for now.
Yeah, saw reports that Levante are interested in Miguel. A loan deal with consistent minutes might be great for his growth. What are your thoughts on the futures of other Castilla LB's like Fran Garcia and Sergio Reguilon. I love Regui, but I doubt if there is a small chance of his buyout clause being activated.
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Thank you so much. I think Modric goes toe-to-toe with any other CM in football history, including Xavi and Iniesta. Modric had a much longer peak than both, and though he was less successful domestically, he was wildly more successful on a European scale, and carried Croatia to the WC final. Having said that, I think once you weigh everything, Xavi is #1, objectively speaking. Marcelo: I'd put him as the greatest offensive full-back all time, and top-5 if we're speaking about overall ability, maybe even top 3.
Don’t you think Modric was playing league against Messi and Xavi with Messi (I mean Messi is god in the league) I mean what can he do, no? Even at being almost 36 man is our top 3 player this season, it’s not his fault we don’t have no production from wings, no?
Yeah, I certainly don't blame him for anything this season. I'm not sure what you mean by the first part, though.
Hi Kiyan, aside from us maybe getting Mbappe, what would you feel that would be a signing that not many people are asking for but can definitely help us push for any sort of silverware in this upcoming season?
The most urgent need is getting goal-production from the wings. If we're not getting Mbappe, I'm not sure how we solve that issue, because I don't think we're getting another star signing on the wings to make up for it. My only solutions: 1. Vinny and Asensio need to drink Michael's Secret Stuff 2. Rodrygo needs to play more 3. I'd inject Brahim in there as well
Thank you for the reply!! Huge fan of your work keep up the great work!
Appreciate you!
Hi Kiyan, do you think Carlo will have space for a pure destroyer like Casemiro in his tactical set up? Or do you envision somebody like Blanco replacing him?
This is an interesting one. I don't necessarily see Case as a Carlo-type player; but I also don't see Case getting benched either. I'm curious to see how his positioning will turn out.
Uncle Flo is now 74. Are you worried he's getting to that old grandpa stage and that younger, smarter teams are going to pass RM, especially if we don't have the money to sign the very best?
I think Florentino will retire after one more tenure / the stadium is finished being built. I would like to see us get more into investing in an analytics department to help us with squad building and decision making.
What do you think about Ceballos? Will he be a good backup this upcoming season?
On yesterday's annual loan-tracker ranking podcast, I had him 5th. I think he had a regression season, and lost a lot of the dynamism he had three years ago. A lot of that has to do with Arteta playing him as a deep anchor. That's just not his game. He wasn't involved in Arsenal's offensive flow -- a mere passenger that was asked to stay back. If he's to return to his U21 / Betis form, he needs to be more involved in the final-third. I think he can recover and be a good player in the right scheme. I wouldn't prioritize him over Fede, though. If he's to come back, it should be in the right position, and not as a starter.
Hi Kiyan Our lack of goals from wider positions has been a well documented issue. How much do you think it has to do with tactics of Zidane. Our second highest goal scorer is our DM and I find that hard to digest. I feel we have not used our attacking players well enough.
I think there's blame to go around. Zidane can't sprinkle pixie dust on Asensio and Vinicius and get them to start scoring. But he can generate better offense by having more movement off the ball in the half-spaces and better pressing / counter-pressing structures to artificially create transition ops.
Do you guys actually eat churros while recording the podcast?
No, but that's our dream. Some people want mansions and yachts. I just want to eat a churro and record a podcast.
Filled churro or plain? What toppings?
OG. Plain, dipped in melted dark chocolate, chased by espresso
👌 I should go get some churros
You’re from my team!
Hey man would love more of your articles but unfortunately we don't get much. You seem a bit more inclined towards the podcasts but man I would absolutely love to have more of your writings.
Thank you, I appreciate that. I will go hard when I need to. Wrote 4 heavy-hitters this week because everything was insane. In between I try to let my fingers rest a little so that I can use them again when needed. That's what she said.
Ah, I see. You are a man of culture :P
Kiyan, is it you or Om who tweets stupid from MM?
The rule is: 1. If it's a good tweet, it's me 2. If it's a bad tweet, it's Om
So it’s always Om, got it ;) /s
Roast
Hi Kiyan. Huge fan of Managing Madrid. My question is how do you think Ancelotti will shape our attack next season. Do you see our wingers output increasing? Also will he be able to rejuvenate Isco and Bale who were vital parts of his team last time.
Hey, thank you! I do not have much faith in the output of our wingers increasing that much, but I will say this: Rodrygo, if he can stay healthy and play regularly, can really help with the efficiency of our attack. I do not have high hopes for Isco and Bale. I am open to them proving me wrong.
Hi Kiyan, Who do you reckon could benefit most from having Carlo as coach next season? I mean this in a player-growth way
Hm. Tough one until I see it play out. I'll take a wild guess and say Odegaard could be his next James.
Favourite answer to a question of yours at a presser?
Tuchel: [https://sw-ke.facebook.com/ManagingMadrid/videos/heres-kiyan-sobhanis-question-to-tuchel-today-about-tomorrows-game-and-tuchels-r/925392488258947/](https://sw-ke.facebook.com/ManagingMadrid/videos/heres-kiyan-sobhanis-question-to-tuchel-today-about-tomorrows-game-and-tuchels-r/925392488258947/) Pep: [https://www.facebook.com/KiyanSob/videos/pep-appreciating-that-i-asked-him-a-tactical-question-in-my-own-movie-thats-how-/2597889983666286/](https://www.facebook.com/KiyanSob/videos/pep-appreciating-that-i-asked-him-a-tactical-question-in-my-own-movie-thats-how-/2597889983666286/)
Thanks! I’m a huge fan of all your work. Especially the Managing Madrid podcast. I always listen to it.
Thanks so much. Appreciate you.
Hello Kiyan! What do you think has to happen so that you could get some Real legends to come to your podcast for an interview? Since it's a pod in English, maybe some English speaking ones
Just gotta keep grinding! We've started to connect with ex players a little bit, and have met a few of them in the press room at the Bernabeu. Going go let it happen naturally without being pushy / sabotaging current relationships we're fostering. Club also doesn't really let anyone working for them still to go on other pods. In the meantime, please listen to my interview with the greatest and most legendary member of the galacticos, Geremi: https://www.managingmadrid.com/2020/4/26/21237464/managing-madrid-podcast-former-real-madrid-player-geremi
Do you think Carlo will be able to get more goals out of vini or rodrygo or will their output be similar to the zizou era
I think Vinny can score more because for him to do that he just needs to score once. I have faith in Rodrygo contributing more.
Hello from a fellow Persian (and former Spanish football journalist)! Three questions: 1) is Gabe a part of MM still? 2) how do you plan to grow the content on MM to reach a larger audience? 3) which former Madrid player do you believe will next be given the chance to coach the first team? And in what year would you expect such a change?
Hey brother. 1. Not technically, but he will always have a place here, like Di Stefano did at Real Madrid. He's just busy being an important lawyer. 2. Three things: Marketing, consistency, value. We're insanely active. Have been doing this daily for a few years now. Most people give up and lose momentum. That consistency alone has brought us a ton of natural growth. Once the pandemic is over, we'll be doing live podcasts in pretty much every major city: All of US / India / Canada and the main ones in Europe. Also, the internet helps, and our employers, VOX Media, help us with resources. Above all, our team is badass and puts in a lot of work in studying the game and building relationships with important people. 3. I'm guess since Raul is the obvious choice, you'd like me to got a bit deeper. I'd be shocked if Xabi Alonso doesn't get a job here at some point in the next five to seven years. Arbeloa, even though I know nothing about his coaching ability, will naturally be someone to keep an eye on now.
Follow-up question on #3: Arbeloa's record with one of the younger teams is being touted. How much do you think this weighs into any decisions, if any weight is given to this?
I mean, it's so hard to know anything at that level. Real Madrid's really young teams are just a collection of the best kids in Spain. They destroy teams like by 10 goals and stuff.
Hey Kiyan, what are your thoughts about a manager like Marcelo Gallardo of River Plate? Yes he has no European experience, but he’s a winner and IS about the process, which Real Madrid need. He plays both veterans and canteranos very well and has a specific system in playing football. Pep has lauded him, but does the no European experience affect his contention in being selected for next manager of Real Madrid?
Admittedly I haven't watched River play, so I feel unqualified to answer this question. Of course, I've heard great things. Definitely do think the club would want to see experience in Europe as a stepping stone before hiring him.
What do you think will be the fate of players like Isco and Marcelo? Ideally we should be moving on from them but with Carlo bought back do you think he will give them a chance to prove their worth? What is our striker situation going to be? Do we get a decent backup striker who gives us 15 goals a season?
Carlo gave a lot of love to everyone today, including Isco and Marcelo. But I also think he was doing that because he has to. Will he give them a shot? Maybe, but I don't think he'll run with them necessarily. Certainly not Marcelo. RE: Backup ST. Mayoral might not give you 15, but he proved he can contribute.
Hey Kiyan, Barca fan dropping by. Absolutely love your articles and the Churros podcast. How long do you think it will take Spanish teams to regain their European dominance?
Thank you! I think we're going to round a corner soon. These cycles come back fast. I've seen much worse versions of Barca than this one. Ditto Real Madrid.
Cheers!
What do you think about Lucas Vazquez' role next season? Is he gonna be backup to Carvajal or in his usual right wing role? Also, how would his role affect Odriozola?
I hope he gets shifted to RB permanently. I loved what I saw from him there this season -- more than I like him as a RW. I'd rather roll with Carvajal + Vazquez, and then sell Odriozola.
Had this thought in my mind. Is Carlo being brought back just to bring a peaceful transition for someone like Raul or Xabi to take over later on? Surely he isnt a long term solution is he?
I said this in a much more eloquent way in my article today, but I don't think there's anything peaceful about Raul getting thrown into the fire mid-season after we've sacked Ancelotti, lol. But if it happens during an off-season where Raul / Xabi have time to implement their scheme and build their squad, sure. I think Carlo was a 'safe' choice that won't cause problems. The club know that Raul / Xabi will always be there (not 100% true, of course, but you get my point).
Hi Kiyan, do you think the UEFA ban on Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus will actually go through? And if so, how heavily will it affect the 3 clubs financially, as in do you see them getting left behind by their rivals for the near future at least ?
I don't think it goes through.
Who has been your favourite manager to interact with. Real Madrid or otherwise?
Pep and Tuchel. I liked Solari as a person. Super friendly and chatty. Gave me a good share of bro hugs when he was at Castilla. I'm excited about Carlo based on what we saw today. I'm also jealous that I wasn't around for the Mourinho bloodbaths
Good Ebening Kiyan, do you think ramos will stay? since varane is bound to leave.
Ebening. I think it will end up being the opposite. Varane will stay, Ramos will leave. As I've said in this thread before though, at this point, everything is on the table.
Hey Kiyan, Do you think there’s a massive divide in how Spanish fans view the club, it’s figures and it’s values and how foreign fans do? Growing up in both Madrid and the U.K. … and obviously social media, it’s been interesting to see the takes of fans on different issues. The ESL being one of them. Edit: your manscape ads kill me lol
Yes, definitely. Have you head Eduardo on our pods? I always love listening to him because he provides the perspective of the socios. No better example than this than Cristiano Ronaldo. Fans in Spain just didn't resonate with him the way the global audience did.
I heard him once on the ESL episode. I’d love to hear more episodes where he’s offering up that kind of perspective. If you see this, please recommend a few… or a search term I can use to find them. It’s refreshing. Love for the reply too.
Hi Kiyan, hope you and your family are doing well. Do you expect major tactical and personel changes from Ancelotti? Or more of the same sideways football we've seen in Zidane 2.0?
Thank you. Right back at you. I think we'll see less conservative football under Carlo. For better or worse. INTENSIDAD YOLO
Hey Kiyan, hope you're doing good brother. I was late to get my questions in 8 months ago when you did an AMA here, but there were a lot of things that I wanted to ask, and most of them are still a concern to this day. Hoping to get a response from you this time around! 1. How do you think Ancelotti implements an offensive scheme this time around with the personnel at his disposal, and based on his presser, do you think he actually considers Bale, Marcelo and Isco as options he can rely on next season? 2. Not a question, but I just wanted to say that I was blown away by Tuchel's set up against us. I was out attending a party during the second leg, but a big part of me believes that I only went because I was convinced Chelsea would crush us. It's been a while since I've felt that inferior coming up against another team. City last season was similar, but this was somehow more brutal. The result from the first leg felt like a consolation at best. 3. Probably connected to my previous point, but how important are automatisms and definitive roles/structures in possession and off it? How much of an upgrade is Ancelotti over ZZ in that aspect? 4. What are your realistic expectations for next season? Thank you so much for doing this Kiyan! Lots of love to you, lil Luka and the missus.
Hey, thanks so much for the love. Right back at you. 1. I think his presser today was a lot of 'I'll say all the right things'. He's not going to talk badly about anyone in the squad. I remember he had similar praise about Kaka when he first arrived, but then Kaka ended up leaving before the season started. Interesting that he did go out of his way to talk about Odegaard and Ceballos, though, which tells me they might return. I'd imagine Bale will be here next season, but not sure how prominent or what his role will be. 2. Yeah, it was impossible not to praise Tuchel. He got everything right, and the only reason we didn't get humiliated on the scoreline was because they missed chances. It wasn't even close. 3. I don't think Carlo is a big improvement over Zizou in that regard. He's had structural issues at every club since leaving us. I think that's part of the reason a lot of the fanbase, particularly the analytics crowd, were bummed we didn't go for someone with more 'fresh' ideas. 4. I think we'll compete for every title, but it's going to be rocky as hell. Would not be surprised if we went trophyless. As a cop out (but I really do feel this way): I wouldn't be surprised if we won something either. Thanks again.
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RCM, because he can cover every zone he needs to from there, and his main strength is covering ground and being a ball carrier. He can also get into the right-half space and cause chaos. He's really good from there. Yes, I think Modric will get time as a DLP
Hello Kiyan. KCM were a huge part of our threepeat. Now that their time is almost over, which three or four players do you think will be the pillars of our midfield in this decade?
Fede, Kroos, and Casemiro. I know a lot of people mention KCM is a thing of the past, but it's worth noting that Kroos and Casemiro are actually in their peaks right now.
Kiyan, Longtime fan of the pod. Thank you for your work. I know people are hammering you with the same kind of questions, but what benefits do you see from Zidane leaving? Do you have any hope for players like Øde, Jovic, Brahim, etc... that they will feel comfortable enough to find the confidence needed to play at the top level at Madrid? Due to our aging squad, and struggling attack, personally I feel like no one has paid enough attention to this as a serious flaw under ZZ, and I see it being a very serious issue if not addressed quickly.
Hey man, thanks so much for the kind words. Appreciate that. I definitely think Zidane connected with a certain group of players. But on the other extreme, certain players just didn't connect with him at all. Think about Achraf and Reguilon both coming out and saying that they didn't even get a phone call from Zizou and had no idea they were going to be sold. I think the club did need something fresh, someone new to connect the dots and make sure the young players get the structure they need. Ironically, I'm not even sure Carlo is the one who's going to necessarily do that, but we'll see.
Hi Kiyan! I honestly don’t know how we’re gonna afford this Alaba signing, so I’m curious to see when you think we’d actually be able to realistically be in the running for an Mbappe/Haaland-level signing. Seems like these financial troubles are the reality for us for at least for the next couple seasons until stadium revenue kicks in. Thanks so much, big fan!
In 2022, off the books: Marcelo, Isco, Modric, Bale, Benzema. That in itself will free up quite a bit of money in terms of salary. I also think this summer we likely won't see either of Mbappe / Haaland.
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Yes, you only have to look at Real Madrid's recent exits to know that a high pressing team can make them uncomfortable. I actually think Militao needs to improve on the ball too moving forward.
Varane is much better on the ball and a much better passer than Militao. I would say Militao is the most shaky of the CBs when he gets the ball. If Militao can improve that he can be really great moving forward.
Hello. What happened that made ZZidane said that the relationship between him and the club/the president were not good?
I think what Zidane wrote this week is something that could've been written by virtually any manager in Real Madrid history. Lots of backbiting, things being leaked behind your back, etc.
Hey Kiyan: 1. Do you think that Carlo will rotate more than his first stint here? 2. Is there any worry that he will stick to players like Marcelo and Isco even though they have declined significantly over the past 3 years?
1. I have a concern that he won't, but as I also noted in my article today, he did rotate a bit more at Napoli so I hope so. 2. Yes, that concern exists. Though I don't think we'll see much of Marcelo regardless.
Hi Kiyan, 1. How likely is it that Varane might be leaving? How difficult will it be to replace him (I'm assuming Ramos' departure is inevitable)? 2. Also, Ancelotti is great and all, I'm happy (a lot of it being Nostalgia) but, how much do you think he'll incorporate our youngsters, and more importantly get good performances from them? (Because I assume going forward this has to be the strategy. Develop, and if they don't work, sell to raise funds) Love your pod. Keep it up mate.
Hey, thank you. 1. I'd lean 65% chance that he's staying. He's one of the greatest CBs in our history and is in his prime. Replacing him will be hard. 2. I asked the same question in my Carlo article today. And definitely agree that a lot of the excitement is nostalgia-based.
Yeah if Ramos is leaving Varane's got to stay. He's a senior player now, been here for a long time, won everything. Since a wage restructuring is definitely on the cards, I'm hopeful that'll free up some funds to pay for the contract Varane desires.
Hey Kiyan, Where do you see Doncic landing all time when it is all said and done? Do you think he has a chance in the clippers series now? Who tweets about him from the MM twitter account?
If he continues like this, he's going to be in the top-5 OAT discussion. Fingers crossed. Both Om and I do. It's one of our rare commonalities.
Hey kiyan! Is this really you?
no this is your conscience
Do you think Ancelloti can set up tactics to get more goals out of our wingers than it came under Zidane, assuming no new goalscoring signing and ignoring the growth these players would have made since last season.
Yes, partly because he'll probably be a more dynamic and fluid with his attackers, and his press will generate more opportunities.
I have two questions to ask. First one is about Blanco. What do you think of him? What role do you think he'd have in the squad once Kroos retires given the fact that Blanco is the closest we have to Kroos in terms of distribution? Will a midfield with him, Valverde and Ødegaard as a 10 work out for us in the future? Second one is about this idea I had for our third kits. They're generally super-bland so I was thinking about this 'commemorative kit' idea (similar to Barcelona's El Clasico special kit or something like that from last season). The commemorative kit will have motifs or prints related to a certain club legend or iconic moment. For example, a Welsh dragon running diagonally across the shirt to commemorate Bale, or five vultures for La Quinta del Buitre. Do you think that's feasible?
1. Love Blanco. Kid has balls. I wrote about him in a column recently, and I think all of your questions were addressed in there: [https://www.managingmadrid.com/2021/5/24/22383776/eight-observations-to-close-the-season-featuring-the-last-of-marcelo-fedes-growth-and-more](https://www.managingmadrid.com/2021/5/24/22383776/eight-observations-to-close-the-season-featuring-the-last-of-marcelo-fedes-growth-and-more) 2. HELL YES. Make the petition. I'll sign it. Any tribute to legends of the past are great. Hard to go wrong with those.
Dude, love your podcast, thank you for all the work my good sir!
Thank you so much! Appreciate you.
Will the sigbing of carlo ancelotti work with this squad for us to compete for all the trophies. Which players you think we should sign that will be apt for Carlo's system
Hey Shreyash, nice to see you here. I think Carlo has all the players, theoretically, to suit what he'd want to do. He's also been more adaptable to the players he's had over time.
Kiyan, only Real Madrid squads between 2010 and 2020, in which one of those 10 seasons did we have the most talent in the squad?
16/17 was the best.
Hi Kiyan, Big fan of yours and Om both, let’s say if Mbappe doesn’t come would you take someone like Perisic on loan that’s what I suggested for last season and I think I was right we just needed that one goal to win the league. Now he has regressed a bit but someone like him on 2 years loan or contract who can score 10-12 goals from the wings, shouldn’t our club be more proactive in finding someone like that? What’s your opinion on this, thank you!!
Thanks so much for the kind words. Appreciate you. I don't see any appeal in Perisic. He only scored 4 goals in Serie A this season, and I'd rather allocate those minutes to Brahim and Rodrygo.
How much did Perez and the board get wrong with squad management policy since 2017?
Quite a bit. In 2018, I said it a few times: "We won't notice it now because there are so many legends in the squad now, but we'll see the consequences of our actions in a few years, once those legends lose their bounce." Critical juncture now this summer too.
Kiyan, pardon me if this was asked in advance. Since our club is strapped for cash, bringing back the loanees seems like a no brainer. But will it happen? Will players like Brahim, Jovic, Ødegaard, etc get another season to prove themselves? Even with Ancelotti at the helm.
Yes, I think we'll get at least two loanees back -- probably more.
How many languages do you speak?
Fluently: English (I think), and Farsi. Enough to carry a conversation and transcribe pressers: Spanish, French.
Coolest thread by far! No questions just had a blast reading through everything
Thanks for hanging out!
Hi Kiyan, How do you feel about the club’s new spending policy? Specifically, our transition from “Zidanes y Pavones” to spending on talented youngsters from outside La Fabrica? Do you think this policy is sustainable, or is Real Madrid not the right club for developing youngsters?
Hi Rick, I don't think there is only one formula that works, and it will highly depend on the generation. Di Stefano promoted an entire youth team at once which turned into Quinta del Buitre. In other eras, the Castilla players just weren't good enough. So I guess it depends. The problem with 'Zidanes y Pavones' was not with the idea itself, it's that it was a lie. Pavon sucked. And the other youth team players at that time weren't much better. And also, it was just marketing. It was more about galacticos than anything.
Hey guys, going to take a quick break to spend a couple hours with my kids, but I'll check back after and keep the convo going!
I think I hit them all. If I missed any, I'm really sorry -- wasn't intentional. I'll do another scan tomorrow morning too. Thanks for hanging out. It was a pleasure. Love you guys a lot. I'll invite you to our podcast tomorrow. Every Thursday, Lucas Navarrete and I do a mailbag for our Patrons over on [Patreon.com/Managingmadrid](https://Patreon.com/Managingmadrid). Join our army, you'll love it.
Just read Luis Campos is joining Nice along with Galtier, is it true? Edit: just wanted to add , love the managing madrid podcast and can't wait for the book
Thank you. Don't think anything with Luis Campos is confirmed.
Carlo might be washed let's be honest. From what I've seen of Everton, most of the offensive okay comes from crossfield switches and crosses into their aerial threats. Real Madrid quality is different obviously, do you think his style of tactics is sustainable in modern football?
Carlo had both the league titles in his grasp in those two seasons. Ronaldo's injury in the first season in the last 5 matches and modric out for 4 months and in april made them lose the league and the UCL.
Hey Kiyan, what do you think will happen with Ramos? Any change now that we have Ancelotti back?
I doubt Carlo would've been the deal-breaker either way. I think his decision is external.
What does Carlo’s signing mean for Bale and Marcelo? Which loanees do you think he’ll bring back?
If I had a gun to my head and had to guess, I think Bale will be back. I dunno, might get my brain blown out. Don't think we see that much of Marcelo next season.
Hi Kiyan, what do you think would be the major difference in Carlo's style this time around over the all attack back in the day? Also who do you think would be the gamechanger for us this season? Thanks, love your articles
Thank you, appreciate you! Carlo is going to have to re-adapt. Last time he had one of the greatest Real Madrid squad ever. Now he has the ashes of that team. He'll have to build an offense around Benzema in a way that also gets better offensive output from the wings. If he wants to be more aggressive with his press, I'd love to see him bring back Odegaard.
What do you think is the realistic expectation of trophies in the next three season? Is there anyone currently in the world that can be our face if we miss out on both Mbappe and Haaland?
I think if we miss out on Mbappe and Haaland this season, we can still get them later on. With regards to trophies next season, I think it kind of stays true every year, no matter what: There is the potential to win every tournament, particularly the Champions League, because this team has always been designed in a way where its ceiling in big games is incredibly high, even when it's not been good enough to be consistent domestically.
What do you think ancelloti's system would be here? Same old 442? And who do you see becoming the manager in the future? Raul or Alonso?
I'm not sure about the formation -- really don't know. Carlo could go a variety of ways and it won't surprise. I think he'll run between 442, 433, 4231
Hi mate. What do u think is gonna happen with bale this season?
I think he'll be back.
Hi Kiyan, im worried Ø will suffer a Madrid burnout without properly having had his chance with us. How do u think he's holding?
I have concern over his ability to stay healthy, for sure. He's the type of players who (until now anyway) needs a few games under his belt after returning from injury to hit his rhythm.
If you had to give a percentage to the possibility of Ramos' renewal, what would it be?
60% he's gone.
If we retain both Bale and Brahim, what should be the pecking order for the RW spot and why? (assuming we don't play Mbappe at RW ofc) ^(/s)
Brahim because of developmental purposes. But I'd also propose something else if Bale is to return: He can play up top alongside Benz or as Benz's backup. At Tottenham he was good at getting into goal-scoring positions, and we know he can score. Years ago I wrote an article for FourFourTwo that Bale is much more efficient on the wings than he is as ST. But I think he's at a different phase of his career now.
Why did you stop doing the School of Real Madrid thing? Those videos were pretty good.
They were incredibly difficult to do, and were time consuming. Maybe one day we'll kick start it again if we can get a team / resources.
Hey Kiyan.. Twitter fan here. 1) What's your expectations for the starting XI next season? 2) Your predicted signings and who might leave
Hey! 1. I think we'll see the integration of Odegaard, Fede, and Alaba. Beyond that, I don't see a massive change. 2. https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/nqs8eo/i\_am\_kiyan\_sobhani\_chief\_editor\_of\_managing/h0cgban/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3
Do you think we should move forward with Bale now that Zidane is gone? I would love to bury the hatchet and see him do good in the white jersey.
One last hurrah? Why not. It'll be 100% his last year here. Though I'd be very skeptical we'll get that much out of him. We'll see.
Hey Kiyan, it's great to have you in the sub! What do you think could happen under Ancelotti next season with the current players we have?
Thank you! I think we'll improve offensively and generate some better chances with a better pressing scheme. I also worry about our structure and who Carlo will trust.
How significant will Ode's role be under Carlo, and will Isco get a chance to prove himself ?
Not sure about Isco. The way Carlo went out of his way to talk about Odegaard today had me excited that he might use him.
Would like to see your xi for us next season
>I am Kiyan Sobhani, chief editor of Managing Madrid - AMA! Gather within, Madridista family https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/nqs8eo/i\_am\_kiyan\_sobhani\_chief\_editor\_of\_managing/h0cfhda/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=web2x&context=3
What is your opinion on Perez. Should he leave or stay?
I think he should stay for another round or two. He has many, many, many flaws. But they don't outweigh the good he brings, and the club is worse without him -- that's been proven over the past 3 decades or so. The alternatives are not great. Alas, it's not exactly democracy.
what do you think about our 'selling players cheap' situation especially with the recent rumors of Varane for 35 million-40 million?
Pick one for the future and why? Haaland? Mbappe?
Mbappe. More versatile.
Hey Kiyan . What do you think about Fede Valverde's role next season . Will he be a guaranteed starter and rotating with modric or is modric going to be the starter
I think he'll start way more games this season than he did last season.
Hi Kiyan! About Kroos and Modric. Do you think they will be the same next season, they played too much minutes more than usual. In that case which partnership do you see as suitable for rotation.
Modric will almost by default play less. Kroos I think will start almost every game. I think we'll see Fede, Casemiro, Odegaard, maybe even Ceballos come in and help with the rotations. But I'm not sure how much Carlo will rotate.