Tote's Madrid reality check: 'No miracles coming' for Los Blancos' style of play
Former pro Tote believes Real Madrid lack the conditions to play more attractive football despite their seven-match winning streak in La Liga.
Despite sitting just a point behind Barcelona in the title race with seven consecutive wins under their belt, Real Madrid shouldn’t expect any dramatic improvement in their playing style according to former pro Jorge López Marco ‘Tote’.
Madrid grinding out results
The latest round of La Liga fixtures reinforced what we already knew – Madrid and Barça are in a league of their own. While the Catalan side currently lead by a single point, Los Blancos continue their relentless pursuit despite not exactly setting the world alight with their performances.
Tote didn’t mince his words during Radio Marca’s ‘El Corrillo’ show, suggesting Madrid fans shouldn’t hold their breath waiting for a stylistic revolution: “No me espero milagros con el Madrid”. The ex-footballer believes the team simply “isn’t in the condition to play better football” at present.
Their victory at Mestalla was described by the panel as “necessary, not brilliant” – which pretty much sums up Madrid’s season so far. Effective but rarely spectacular.
Atlético falling away
The discussion also focused on Atlético Madrid’s fading title hopes after their draw with Betis. Now sitting 13 points off the top, Diego Simeone’s men are effectively out of the title race according to the pundits.
Tote identified a clear problem: “Against low blocks, Atleti struggle enormously because they don’t have one-on-one players.” Other panelists pointed to:
- Inconsistency as their biggest burden
- A mentality shift towards prioritizing Copa del Rey
- Even Simeone showing signs of resignation
VAR controversy
The semi-automated offside technology came in for a proper pasting from all participants, with former players arguing that “cancelling goals because of a fingernail goes against the spirit of the rule.”
Meanwhile, Dani Carvajal’s declining form was addressed bluntly by José Luis San Martín: “He’s 34, he’s lost strength and speed. He’s not physically well – no need to overcomplicate it.”
As things stand, it’s looking increasingly like a two-horse race in La Liga with a growing chasm between the top two and the chasing pack. Not that Madrid’s functional approach is likely to get any easier on the eye anytime soon.