Real Madrid At Real Sociedad: 3 X-Factors To Watch On Matchday 2

3. If Real Madrid starts Marcelo or Ferland Mendy

Real Madrid should start Ferland Mendy at left back against Real Sociedad, because he is the best left back in the team. But even more than that, Mendy is one of the best three left backs in Europe. Alphonso Davies might be the only player at the position who is better, and even still, Mendy probably has him beat defensively.

Mendy is good enough to handle Portu, who loves to cause problems drifting inside to score or playing as a wide playmaker. Portu was an underrated part of La Real’s attack last season, and if he played for a bigger club or in, say, the Premier League, more fans around Europe would recognize him as a star player. Real Madrid and Zinedine Zidane won’t take him lightly.

But Marcelo has his positive traits, too. Marcelo should never be insulted, not just for what he’s done for Real in the past but also for what he can do in the present. Barcelona failed to account for his attacking threat, and they paid the price.

Marcelo had major issues with La Real defensively in the Copa del Rey. But at the same time, he adds such an attacking threat that he could lead a goal-fest as Vinicius’ main support.

Mendy should start, judging by the threat La Real’s entire attack poses. He’s no slouch offensively either. Yet there’s no guarantee he starts. Zidane has a choice at left back that could subtly decide this road game.