Real Madrid is facing one of the most challenging seasons in recent history, with their worst start in over two decades. The club, which typically thrives at this stage of the season, is now grappling with significant issues both on and off the court. This year’s performance has raised alarm bells, with a disappointing string of losses, particularly in the EuroLeague, where they’ve already lost 8 games—more than the total number of defeats they faced last season.
EuroLeague Struggles: A Historic Low
Real Madrid’s poor performance in the EuroLeague has been a major concern. As of mid-December, they are in 13th place, far from the playoff spots, which is a stark contrast to their dominant position last season when they finished first in the regular season. The last time they experienced such a troubling start was in the 2002-03 season under coach Javier Imbroda, where they were knocked out early in the competition. Despite the season being far from over, the team’s current trajectory suggests that their struggles may be deep-rooted and difficult to overcome.
The Challenge of Depth and Team Dynamics
One of the critical issues contributing to Real Madrid’s troubles is their lack of depth. The team has struggled to cope with injuries and the inconsistency of key players. Coach Mateo faces the daunting task of finding a way to address these challenges and get the team back on track. The lack of solid bench strength has become more apparent as the season progresses, making it harder to field a competitive lineup for every game.
The Road Ahead
While it’s not too late for Real Madrid to turn things around, their current form raises doubts about their ability to fix the structural flaws that have emerged. The team will need to make adjustments quickly if they hope to return to their former glory. However, as the weeks go by, the question remains: Can they overcome their issues and salvage the season, or is this the start of a longer period of decline for one of Europe’s most successful clubs?
