Real Madrid: 3 people who must improve after loss to Cadiz

Real Madrid LB Marcelo

Ferland Mendy cannot start every game, which is unfortunate. Because he is the best defensive fullback in European football and a burgeoning offensive threat, as Granada – and the net of the goal itself – can attest.

Marcelo should be an excellent backup to Mendy, offering creative attacking solutions that benefit the team and at least something resembling competent, experienced defending.

He offered nothing of the sort against Cadiz. Marcelo was wasteful in the attacking end, playing aimless crosses and suffocating the middle of the field. Far from his imaginative best with the ball at his feet, Marcelo dragged the attack down, which is uncharacteristic of him.

Marcelo is better than this. Even at 32, he is still one of the better left backs in world football, which is why it is so disheartening to see him play like this.

Recall how well he played against Barcelona earlier this year. He is not done yet. However, he does need to step up, because his number will be called again. Mendy is the regular starter, but Marcelo is an important player on the team as a leader, top backup left back, and creative attacking influence.

The microscope is on him, though, because the stats don’t lie. Real Madrid are a better team when Mendy starts.