Jelili Gbadamosi
Claude Makelele has questioned Real Madrid’s tactical approach following their 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid in last weekend’s LaLiga derby, arguing that the team lacked a clear plan against their city rivals.
The former Chelsea midfielder criticised the way José Mourinho set up Real Madrid for the encounter, saying the players appeared to lack understanding and direction during the match.
Speaking to ESPN, Makelele said the defeat was not primarily caused by refereeing decisions but by shortcomings in Real Madrid’s overall performance and tactical organisation.
“There is no understanding. Neither between the players nor with the coach. Mourinho must talk to them,” Makelele said.
The former France international also argued that Real Madrid failed to demonstrate a coherent game plan against an Atletico side he described as disciplined.
“The team is weak, there is no game plan and no clear ideas. There is nothing. Nothing, nothing, nothing… Absolutely nothing. We must demand more from them,” he said.
Makelele dismissed suggestions that poor officiating was responsible for Real Madrid’s defeat, insisting that the team’s performance itself exposed significant weaknesses.
“The problem is not the referee, there is an obvious deficiency in the team,” he added.
The defeat has subsequently raised questions about Mourinho’s tactical decisions and Real Madrid’s ability to compete effectively in high-pressure fixtures as the LaLiga campaign continues.
