Bayern Munich vs. Real Madrid: Key player battles to watch
By Sachin Bhat
Casemiro vs. James Rodriguez
If this tie is significant for one man, then that is James Rodriguez.
Offloaded to Munich in the summer, the Colombian was left frustrated on the bench for most of his time in Madrid. But ever since he’s switched sides, we witnessed a new avatar of the 26-year-old.
He is no longer a back-up or a substitute. Rodriguez is an integral part of Jupp Heynckes system, and the veteran manager’s arrival has coincided with an upswing in his form.
Operating behind the striker, he has added more dimensions to his game. He tracks back to shield the back line whenever the double pivot is being eclipsed.
He drifts wide when Muller takes a more central position. And while the likes of Lewandowski, Robben, and Muller walk away with the plaudits for plundering a litany of goals, it’s James who makes it all happen.
Rankings balón de oro si fuera premiado mañana, ¿quién es tu jugador favorito? Vía @stighefootball @brfootball #RANKINGS @jamesdrodriguez #JamesRodriguez pic.twitter.com/eiwCyzObYm
— James Rodríguez Col (@drodriguezzfans) April 19, 2018
From a benchwarmer at Real to the chief orchestrator at Bayern, his resurgence is unprecedented. His opposite number Casemiro has a monumental challenge in front of him.
Next: Bayern Munich vs. Real Madrid: Three things to watch for
The Brazilian must deprive him off finding or creating passing lanes. His 18 key passes in Europe is dwarfed only by Toni Kroos (23) among the active players in the competition.
A lot of the tie could be won or lost here. There are several other important midfield matchups too, but this one would arguably have more bearings on the outcome than any other.