Real Madrid position preview: forwards

With the La Liga campaign now upon us, here at The Real Champs we are previewing each aspect of the team and how strong each position appears ahead of the campaign. We’ve already looked at the goalkeepers, fullbacks and center backs, and, midfielders. Now we’re going to look at the forwards in the side as well as analysing each player and summarising what we should expect from them in the 2017/18 campaign.

Borja Mayoral

Mayoral returned to the Spanish capital this year following a loan spell at Wolfsburg. The young striker is still just 20 years old. The Spaniard has been tasked with being the backup striker to Karim Benzema following the sales of Alvaro Morata to Chelsea and Mariano Diaz to Olympic Lyon.

Despite playing a lot of the preseason games for Los Blancos this season, Mayoral is not a player many would consider of high enough quality to be the backup striker in this Real Madrid team.

He only made 3 starts in Germany last season for Wolfsburg (375 mins total) and he scored a total 3 goals while appearing in 16 matches as a substitute. He had a 77% pass completion rate and was averaging 0.6 shots per game. However, his return is not good enough to be the main option coming off of the bench for Real Madrid.

When you consider that Alvaro Morata had 20+ goals last season from the bench and also with restricted minutes, it heaps the pressure on the young Borja’s shoulders. Despite having his fair share of chances during the recent U.S tour, Mayoral only scored a single goal.

In the coming season, Mayoral is going to have to make a huge impression to not only win over Zidane, but also to win over the fans. I think generally, Zidane would rather play Bale or Ronaldo as a #9 over Mayoral.

Lucas Vasquez

Lucas Vasquez has been a surprise package since his inclusion in the team during the ill-fated reign of Rafa Benitez. He was brought back to the club via his buy back clause and he has taken his chances ever since.

The 26-year-old has been a workhorse for Zidane since he took the reigns. He may not score a lot of goals or provide assists, but the Spaniard does provide a quick injection of pace, versatility, tricks, and dribbling.

He is the perfect player to bring on late to unsettle a back line as we saw in the Super Cups against both Barcelona and Manchester United where he caused problems for both sides. During the 16/17 season, he was the player with the most minutes clocked up.

Whilst he may not be a nailed down starter, he is a good asset to have. His high work rate and decent ability make him perfect for Zidane’s rotation policy.

Karim Benzema

Benzema is a player who divides the opinion of fans.

While many sing the praises of the Frenchman’s skills and abilities, there are also his detractors who doubt his work rate and his finishing. However, for all the division, it is hard to list how many strikers would be as selfless as Benzema – his link up with Ronaldo and company is something that you don’t see from many #9’s in world football and his ability to transition with his teammates in the final third is world-class.

He often drifts left and right and can get into a good position down middle. He is also a tricky dribbler with a few tricks up his sleeve.

His contribution in big games is also often overlooked. He has a good track record of providing goals and assists on the biggest stage; one only needs to look back at his run against Atletico Madrid at the Calderon in the Champions League last season.

This season should be no different for the French striker, he has already shown his class in the Super Copa against Barcelona, where he turned in a class performance with an exquisite finish and impeccable work rate.

Gareth Bale

Bale like Benzema is a player who divides opinion in Spain.

His recent injury record has seen people begin to question whether he can take the mantle in the Spanish capital. With the emergence of Isco last campaign and the recent world class displays of talent from Marco Asensio, one would imagine that Bale is beginning to sweat over his place in the team.

When’s in form, Bale is unstoppable as he marauds around the final third. A thunderous left foot, sheering pace and fantastic physicality – Bale is the perfect all around footballer. However, he has fallen victim to being a little fragile.

Despite some strong statistics, Bale really needs to push on this season. His position is now questionable in the team and he ought to address the doubters, once and for all. Should he have a strong campaign then Real Madrid will be even stronger for it. However, should the issues persist and many will wonder whether his time in the Spanish capital is up. This season is a make or break for the Welsh forward.

Cristiano Ronaldo

What is there left to say about Cristiano Ronaldo? Even at the age of 32, he is still performing at the pinnacle of the sport. His goal scoring – frightening, his determination – admirable and his leadership – exceptional.

His game has evolved, he may not make the darting runs and show the flashy skills, but he has become the most deadly finisher in world football. His IQ in the box is second to none and his insatiable desire to score is matched by nobody. The last couple of years have been trophy laden and it does not seem to be over yet. We saw a glimpse of the old Ronaldo against Barcelona when he cut in

The last couple of years have been trophy-laden and it does not seem to be over yet. We saw a glimpse of the old Ronaldo against Barcelona when he cut in from the left-wing after speeding to the ball before firing a rocket into the net. Ronaldo still has that in him, even if it isn’t as prominent as it once was.

Despite being banned for 5 games, Ronaldo seems to be in peak condition. He made an immediate impact against Barcelona and he looked sharp in his brief run out. Zidane may stick to his rotation of the Portuguese star this season, but it is clear Ronaldo is driven to win even more this coming season. If he continues like he did last season then every team on the continent should be on red alert.

Next: Marcos Llorente looks to be on his way out at Real Madrid

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