Reflecting on Real Madrid’s Semifinal Win

In our latest Managing Madrid Podcast, Lucas Navarrete, who is on duty as press for Managing Madrid at Wembley, was joined by Kiyan Sobhani, Siddharth Ramsundar, and Hridyam Arora to provide an in-depth preview of the highly anticipated Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. Here are the key takeaways from the episode: The Vibes in Real Madrid’s Locker Room from Wembley Lucas Navarrete shared exclusive insights from inside the Real Madrid camp. How Will Borussia Dortmund Approach the Champions League Final? The panel delved into Borussia Dortmund’s potential strategies. The consensus is that Dortmund will look to exploit Real Madrid’s weaknesses, particularly through quick transitions and set-pieces. The team’s tactical flexibility could pose challenges for Los Blancos. Sabitzer’s Role The discussion highlighted the importance of Marcel Sabitzer in Dortmund’s setup. Mats Hummels Having the Season of His Life Mats Hummels is experiencing a career renaissance, leading the tournament in tackles, interceptions, and clearances. His defensive prowess will be crucial in keeping Real Madrid’s attackers at bay. Gregor Kobel, the Miracle Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel has been nothing short of miraculous between the posts. His exceptional shot-stopping ability and consistent performances have been a cornerstone of Dortmund’s Champions League campaign. How Dortmund Can Punish Real Madrid The panel discussed various ways Dortmund could exploit Real Madrid’s vulnerabilities. Quick counter-attacks, exploiting set-piece opportunities, and maintaining a solid defensive structure were among the key points. Strange Happenings in the Press Room Lucas shared some intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the press room. Takeaways from Today’s Press Conferences The podcast also covered significant quotes from today’s pre-game press conferences: Luka Modric emphasized the importance of not underestimating Dortmund, highlighting that the match is closer to a 50-50 battle. Carlo Ancelotti spoke about the need for clear tactical instructions and managing emotions effectively. Edin Terzic expressed confidence in Dortmund’s defensive solidity and their readiness to exploit Real Madrid’s weaknesses. And More The episode also included various other insights and analyses, making it a comprehensive preview of tomorrow’s big game. This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube. Additionally, the Managing Madrid crew will be going live on YouTube 1 hour before the game tomorrow with more pre-game thoughts, as well as right after the final whistle. Make sure you’re subscribed to the YouTube channel to catch all the live action and insights. Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Siddharth Ramsundar (@tacticalfouling) Hridyam Arora (@hridarora22) Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our latest podcast episode, hosted by Hridyam Arora and Sam Sharpe, we talk about Castilla’s season in a nutshell, how important it is for a squad rebuild, Raul’s legacy as a coach, and the main reason for Castilla’s dormancy. Here is a sneak peek of what we talk about: Would this season be considered a success or a failure for the team and Raul? Judging by the quality this year’s Castilla side boast, would a 10th-placed finish really be considered a success, or is there work ahead for Raul and the boys? Who stays at Castilla next season? There are a lot of players who should leave either because they are too good, or they are not good enough, and there are a lot of players who fall into that category. What is next for Raul? Raul has, frankly, stayed for a very long time at the club. He has done a phenomenal job at Real Madrid Castilla, and it is understandable to see why he would not want to leave, but is that reason really enough? The importance of signing new players immediately We discuss the importance of external talent, not just for Castilla, but for Real Madrid as an entire club. Why is it so important? Discussing who to keep, and why to keep them There are players like Manuel Angel who have just had their first year at Castilla, and with a bit more of experience under their belt, they will start to truly blossom as players. Who is on the short, short list of players to keep? Where is reinforcement needed? We talk about the positions where Castilla need to sign players before anything else. And a lot more. Join the Conversation Connect with other Real Madrid fans on our Real Madrid Discord Channel. Managing Madrid is your go-to hub for the latest news, in-depth analyses, and community discussions. Your support enables us to continue delivering high-quality content and engaging podcasts. Hosts This Week:Hridyam Arora @hridarora Sam Sharpe @CastillaStats Managing Madrid is powered by a dedicated team, committed to bringing you the best Real Madrid content. Your contributions are invaluable in keeping this platform running smoothly. Stay tuned for more exclusive content, and thank you for being a part of our community! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Description: In this exclusive bonus clip from the latest Managing Madrid Members-only podcast, hosts Kiyan Sobhani and Eduardo Alvarez dive deep into the remarkable tribute Toni Kroos received in his last game at the Bernabeu. They discuss whether there has ever been anything quite like it in Real Madrid’s storied history. This clip is just a taste of the extensive content we provide to our Members. To access the full episode and enjoy tons of bonus shows, join us on Patreon. In the full episode, Kiyan and Eduardo also cover: Hansi Flick replacing Xavi at Barcelona The greatness of Manolo Sanchis Why Real Madrid being favored in the Champions League Final vs Borussia Dortmund is dangerous Don’t miss out on the in-depth discussions and insights! Watch the full episode here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-video-of-28-105118857 For more Real Madrid content, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and visit our website at Managing Madrid. This is an exclusive bonus clip for our Managing Madrid Podcast Members. To access more in-depth analysis and discussions, consider becoming a member on Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Art of Rebuilding In this podcast episode, Sid is joined by scout and analyst Kannan A. as we dive into Real Madrid’s masterclass in rebuilding while continuing to win major trophies. We analyze Madrid’s success without key center-backs, the integration of young talent alongside experienced stars, and the club’s astute recruitment strategies. We also compare Real Madrid’s approach to Barcelona’s rebuilding efforts and discuss the challenge of replacing midfield maestro Toni Kroos. We also explore the secrets behind Real Madrid’s triumphs and the lessons other clubs can learn from their balance of youth, experience, and adaptability. TIMESTAMPS: 2:00 - Real Madrid’s remarkable season without starting center backs 7:46 - Is La Liga weaker? 23:48 Real Madrid’s rebuild 28:57 - Recruitment principles and approach 36:41 - Barcelona’s contrasting failures 53:26 - Replacing Kroos 1:22:12 - Mbappe/Vinicius/Rodrygo 1:31:12 Comparing Kroos to Xavi and Pirlo The Real Deal is a small Managing Madrid spinoff show that hosts podcasts that go up on our Spotify feed. Find them on X, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok at @realdealpods for more takes and banter between episodes! Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Siddharth Ramsundar (@TacticalFouling) Kannan A. (@thewittyjack) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday’s exclusive Members-only Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Siddharth Ramsundar caught up to discuss various topics, including a deep dive on advanced analytics behind Real Madrid and Barcelona’s La Liga seasons respectively, where Toni Kroos ranks among all-time passers and midfielders in football history, why / how Erling Haaland changed his game from the Borussia Dortmund days, and more. The clip we’ve uploaded for free on YouTube this week is about Kylian Mbappe’s arrival to Real Madrid next season, and how much, if at all, the team will be better with him. The full episode can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-video-of-27-105049929 Enjoy, subscribe, and comment, and let us know your thoughts on the above video. Subscribe to the Managing Madrid Podcast on Apple: https://apple.co/3tJ6qY9 Subscribe to the Managing Madrid Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/364lzLx Join the Patreon army for a ton on bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Las Blancas podcast, hosts Yash Thakur and Kanita discuss Real Madrid’s loss in the Madrid derby and contract renewals. Talking points: Alberto Toril’s urge to shake up things in important games The centerback problem and wrong setup by Toril The goals conceded exposing age long problems Linda’s positive performance The synergy between Bruun and Moller The left hand-side of defense crippling the entire organization Athenea’s contract extension Rocio’s renewal and what it means for other centerbacks The investigative eye into the situation of Maelle Lakrar Did you enjoy this podcast? Please consider supporting us through Patreon for more bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and its podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Yash Thakur (@Odriozolite) Kanita (@KaniFroh) Las Blancas (@Las_Blancas) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Friday’s exclusive Members-only Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani, Lucas Navarrete, Siddharth Ramsundar caught up to discuss various topics, including the entire circus that is FC Barcelona: Joan Laporta’s behaviour towards Xavi Hernandez, what Barcelona will look like under Hansi Flick, and more. The crew also took some time to reflect on some beautiful memories with Managing Madrid’s beloved Om Arvind. The clip we’ve uploaded for free on YouTube this week is about the most painful Real Madrid departures. Which legend’s departure hurt the most? A ranking: The full episode can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-video-of-25-104899077 Enjoy, subscribe, and comment, and let us know your thoughts on the above video. Subscribe to the Managing Madrid Podcast on Apple: https://apple.co/3tJ6qY9 Subscribe to the Managing Madrid Podcast on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/364lzLx Join the Patreon army for a ton on bonus content: Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani, Siddharth Ramsundar, and Hridyam Arora discuss: Our emotions during Toni Kroos’s last Bernabeu performance Kroos's extremely unique station The post-Kroos era, what does it actually look like? Why we have to be infinitely grateful for the Modric - Kroos era The future evolution of Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively over on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo) Siddharth Ramsundar (@tacticalfouling) Hridyam Arora (@hridarora22) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode, we’re joined by Jarod Hector, a Madridista and podcaster for True Hoop to pay tribute to the legendary Toni Kroos as he hangs up his boots. We dive deep into Kroos’ immense impact on Real Madrid and the German National Team’s tactical identity, as he brought control to teams that traditionally preferred more heavy metal, transition-focused approaches to the game. Jarod helps us contrast Kroos and Luka Modric with their predecessors, Mesut Özil and Xabi Alonso. We also explore how Florentino Pérez’s crucial improvements as club president during the Kroos era laid the foundation for an unprecedented period of success. From the historic threepeat to Kroos’ ability to carry the team in the post-Ronaldo seasons, we leave no stone unturned in our analysis of his legacy. We focus on Kroos’ unique ability to control the game and process information on the pitch relative to other greats like Xavi, Busquets and Thiago. Looking ahead, we evaluate Real Madrid’s squad depth and the daunting task of replacing a player of Kroos’ caliber. The conversation then ends by touching on the NBA playoffs and the rise of Luka Doncic, as we explore the fascinating concept of subjective time and cognitive processing speeds in sports. TIMESTAMPS: 2:29 - Introducing Jarod and Truehoop 6:10 - How Kroos shifted Real Madrid’s tactical identity after Mourinho 10:13 - Kroos, Guardiola and Germany’s shifting identity 12:50 - Contrasting Ozil and Xabi Alonso with Kroos and Modric 18:41 - Makelele, Tchouameni, and Florentino’s crucial improvements as club president during the Kroos era 27:09 - Kroos’ impact on Real Madrid’s tactics in 2014-15 35:19 - The threepeat years and switching play 37:50 - Carrying during the post-Ronaldo seasons under Zidane 41:58 - The de and re-optimization of Kroos under Carlo Ancelotti 50:37 - Kroos’ hall of fame controlling & cognitive processing skills 1:03:54 - Real Madrid’s squad depth heading into the new season 1:16:33 - Best controlling midfielders of the 21st century 1:25:35 - Replacing Toni Kroos 1:34:36 - Subjective time and cognitive processing speeds 1:42:26 - Luka Doncic & the NBA Playoffs The Real Deal is a small Managing Madrid spinoff show that hosts podcasts that go up on our Spotify feed. Find them on X, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok at @realdealpods for more takes and banter between episodes! Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Siddharth Ramsundar (@TacticalFouling) Jarod Hector (@jshector) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to our “The Making of Peñas” series where we go over the origin stories of these official Real Madrid recognized fan clubs around the world. In this episode Mehedi gets into the fascinating origin story of Peña Madridista Toronto with fellow founding members. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Best cheese slice in the World is in Canada! 02:00 - Mehedi’s jinxing abilities at Real Madrid’s live screenings 03:20 - The origin of Peña Madridista Toronto from Victor and Michael 10:00 - The process of becoming a Peña 16:00 - Future plans of Peña Madridista Toronto 18:45 - How Victor Alvarez and Michael Silva became Madrid fans 24:00 - How Real Madrid was perceived as a ‘formerly great club’ in the 90s and how the times have changed 28:00 - The state of Canadian football in the grand scheme of things 33:00 - Where to watch Real Madrid games in Toronto The Real Deal is a small Managing Madrid spinoff show that hosts podcasts that go up on our Spotify feed. Find them on X, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok at @realdealpods for more takes and banter between episodes! Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Host this week: Mehedi Hassan (@MHassanFootball) Peña Madridista Toronto (@PenaRM_Toronto) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices