It’s not often one gets grilled for doing well in something, but Zidane is a hard man to please it seems. Real Madrid romped home to a commanding 5-2 win over Osasuna on Saturday and saw their rivals Barcelona slump to a shock defeat at home against newly promoted Alaves.
It felt like a time for celebration but unfortunately the players were in for a scolding from Zidane in the dressing room after the game was over. According to journalist Jose Luis Sanchez who spoke to media outlet El Chiringuito, Zidane had a meeting with the players and the staff after the game.
The coach was apparently angry with what he had seen from the players on the pitch. According to Sanchez, Zidane spoke about the importance of cohesion amongst the group. He said that there should be mutual respect in the squad.
The need for backing up each other and working as a group, putting petty differences aside was crucial if they wanted to achieve success. Clearly, something irked the Frenchman during the game, something he saw on the field was not satisfactory.
He also reportedly explained what the club’s priorities are, how important winning La Liga was this season and to also have on eye on the Champions League. Madrid are currently top of La Liga after their win.
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The speech could have been a preventive measure to ensure complacency doesn’t creep into their heads. It’s very easy to lose track and take it easy when all is going well for a team. Barcelona suffered from that very phenomenon last season when they seemed to be cruising to the title
A mini-slump saw their lead cut in dramatic fashion and the only thing separating the two teams on the final day was a single point. Madrid haven’t won the League title in a while and it’s clear the Frenchman wants his team to focus on the task at hand.
Madrid were leading quite comfortably in the game but still let in 2 goals, something that would frustrate any manager. Zidane wants to ensure there is companionship amongst his players, and that egos take a back seat.
Los Blancos seem to have a very complete squad this season, despite not recruiting heavily in the summer. Now, with Ronaldo also back in the fold, they are ready to challenge on all fronts.
The La Liga no doubt is their primary goal, but they could make history this season by becoming the first team to defend the Champions League crown
