One thing that’s clear from Zinedine Zidane is that in 2017/18 season, his Real Madrid squad will be in shape, thanks to new additions, to fight for all six titles.
Though there are no guarantees, the Frenchman has plugged the holes in his squad that were evident before winning the Champions League final in Cardiff.
Where both Marcelo and Casemiro did not have a natural replacement last season, the arrivals of Theo Hernandez and Marcos Llorente now gives Zidane options in every position.
In the case of the left-back, the almost total absence of Fabio Coentrao throughout the season (barely 297 minutes in six games) meant that Zizou had to resort to players who are not naturals in the position.
Both Danilo and Nacho (right and centre-back respectively) covered Marcelo’s absences when rest was required or muscle injuries dictated that he stayed on the sidelines.
That problem, with the incorporation of Theo, is more than resolved.
READ ALSO: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Rotation Continues In 2017-2018 Season
One of the revelations of last season at Alaves, his purchase cost 26 million euros from city rivals Atletico.
The youngster managed to play 38 games, or 3,200 minutes across the season, and ended it with a stunning goal in the Copa del Rey final.
He will play a hugely important role whenever Marcelo isn’t available.
The same can be said of Marcos Llorente, who grew up in Real’s academy – where he already played for Zizou – and who has become an elite footballer alongside Theo at Alaves.
He will push Casemiro all the way in 2017/18, giving balance to the centre of midfield.
The Brazilian was so essential last season that it caused a huge problem when he was unavailable, Toni Kroos having to shuttle across to cover.
With Llorente now back that issue has disappeared for Zidane.
Team A … and Team B
It’s also necessary to remember the importance that the coach attaches to his bench and squad players.
READ ALSO: Fiorentino Perez Full Interview: Ronaldo Is A Real Madrid Player And Will Continue To Be
He proved it in the final sprint of last season when effectively creating two teams.
On the one hand, the starting eleven for the decisive matches of the league and Champions League included Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Kroos, Karim Benzema, Marcelo, Carvajal and selected others.
On the other, the so called B team, led by Marco Asensio, with Alvaro Morata, James and Lucas contributing goals.
