There are several and very different reasons why the Real Madrid it just doesn't work. It can be criticized from the planning of the workforce by the board to the management of rotations, pending account Zidane. However, if we refer exclusively to team play, it is clear that the great must of this team is the attack. Since the departure of Christian Ronaldo In 2018, the scoring figures have dropped considerably. Alone Benzema seems to have taken a step forward.
This season, the Frenchman has found the help of an unexpected protagonist: Rodrygo. The Brazilian is, after Karim, the footballer in the squad who has participated in the most goals this season (seven counting one goal and six assists). And has done it in just 680 minutes of play. This means that it generates a bit each 97 minutes, the best average of the team.
The problem for Zidane is that he cannot count on him. On December 23, against Granada, Rodrygo broke. He suffered a muscle injury with tendon involvement in the biceps femoris that will keep him out until the end of March at least. Unless the deadlines are advanced, the coach will not be able to count on him or in the round of 16 of Champions League against him Atalanta (February 24 the first leg and March 16 the return) or in the derby against him Athletic of Madrid (7 of March).
A sensible low considering that Rodrygo also upgrade your teammates on various offensive stats. Counting league and Champions (the only two tournaments he has been able to play), it is leader in assists (six) and the second player with the most clear scoring chances (six), only behind Lucas Vázquez (seven) and tied with Benzema, although he has done so playing much fewer minutes than both. And, although he must improve it, he has a decent percentage of success in the shot: the 42% of his shots go to goal.
Madrid urgently need offensive solutions, they cannot wait. But Rodrygo is preparing to return in top form to the final stretch of the season, with the titles at stake, and help lift them.
LaLiga Santander
* Data updated as of January 21, 2021