Former Real Madrid star says problems have gone unresolved for two and a half years

Real Madrid’s early-season struggles have raised serious questions about the direction of Florentino Perez’s project, with former player Alvaro Benito saying the same problems have remained visible for two and a half years.

Real Madrid are fourth in La Liga with 15 points after seven games. Their poor start has intensified scrutiny, particularly after they were defeated 2-1 by Atletico Madrid in the derby.

Benito, speaking to Cadena SER in comments reported by Sport, said the club needed to examine the situation more deeply rather than focus solely on individual results.

“Here, the thinking has to go much deeper. If you have seen the same problems on the pitch for two and a half years, then the nature of those problems is exactly the same,” he said.

“We have not seen any change with the different managers, despite each of them having a different style. So the problem is much deeper, isn’t it? That is what I am saying.”

Benito added that Real Madrid’s recent victory over Elche had not changed his view of the team’s underlying difficulties.

“The problems have continued for two and a half years and nothing has been resolved. You can win. For example, you won the last game against Elche, but the impression the team gives collectively is that the same problems keep appearing,” he said.

He also argued that the result at the Metropolitano was less important than the manner in which the team approached the match.

“Everyone could have expected that, unless something exceptional happened, when you went to the Metropolitano you would see what we actually saw. You could win or lose, but I am not talking about the defeat or the victory, because the route to the result can take different paths,” Benito said.

“If Cuti Romero had been sent off in the first half, perhaps you could even have won the match. I am talking about the collective impression, the idea of how the team plays, what it offers and which players you would select in the starting line-up for most matches.”

Mourinho’s philosophy not in evidence

Benito said Jose Mourinho was not implementing the tactical principles normally associated with him at Real Madrid, a potentially serious issue for a side that needs a clear structure to play effectively on the counter-attack.

“Historically, Mourinho relies on a very strong mid-block, a team with its lines close together, aggressive pressing, winning the ball back and then attacking directly and quickly,” Benito said.

“That style would be perfect for Real Madrid, given the characteristics of the players they have. But the problem is that we are not seeing it.”