Real Madrid’s running figures raise fresh questions after derby defeat

Real Madrid have been ranked as the least hard-running team in La Liga this season, covering significantly less ground per match than both Barcelona and newly promoted leaders Elche.

The figures add to the scrutiny surrounding Jose Mourinho’s side after their humiliating derby defeat by Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano. That loss exposed more than a disappointing result, with the team’s physical output highlighting wider concerns inside the club.

According to data from Sofascore, reported by Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid have averaged only 83.46 kilometres per game after seven rounds of La Liga. That places them 20th and last in the competition, well below the league-wide average of 93.37km.

The contrast with Elche is particularly striking. The newly promoted side lead the rankings with an average of 105.61km per match, meaning their players cover 22 kilometres more than Real Madrid’s in each game.

Barcelona are second, averaging 104.64km per match. Their total is 21km higher than Real Madrid’s, underlining the difference in intensity and commitment between the two rivals.

A post shared by Madrid Zone on 21 September 2026 said: “Real Madrid is the team that runs the LEAST in La Liga this season. The team covers 21km less per game than Barcelona, and covers 10km less than the average La Liga team.”

The statistics have emerged at a difficult moment for Real Madrid. Following seven league matches, they are not only six points behind Barcelona, who have returned to their expected level under Hansi Flick, but are also facing questions over their work rate and competitive character.

Pressure grows during international break

The derby defeat has triggered a wider crisis of confidence, with Real Madrid entering a lengthy international break amid significant uncertainty. No section of the club has escaped criticism, while the players particularly the established stars have been accused of performing well below the required standard.

Mourinho has also come under pressure as he attempts to find a balanced team capable of producing consistent performances and results. The manager appears to have struggled to settle on the right combination of players, with the side’s lack of regularity becoming an increasing concern.

Florentino Perez’s sporting strategy is facing renewed criticism too. Real Madrid did not strengthen their midfield sufficiently during the summer, and structural weaknesses within the squad have continued into another season.

The substantial gap in running distance has therefore been viewed as more than an isolated statistic. It has reinforced the belief that one of Real Madrid’s central problems is a lack of intensity, fighting spirit and collective commitment.