Real Madrid: 5 players who need to shine in March 2021
RB Lucas Vazquez
Since it’s too obvious to pick one of Casemiro’s other two world-class midfield partners in Luka Modric or Toni Kroos and asking more from Thibaut Courtois would be similarly unfair, let’s go with another right-sided player who has been behind Marco Asensio of late but could replace his spot, too.
Lucas Vazquez has been a gift to Real Madrid this season as a backup right back. He has outperformed Alvaro Odriozola, to the point where the 25-year-old is becoming an afterthought to Madridistas. While Vazquez’s own future remains uncertain due to ongoing contract negotiations with his deal ending after the season’s conclusion, Vazquez has earned more years in Madrid on the strength of his play in 2020-2021.
According to WhoScored.com, the versatile 29-year-old recorded 12 tackles and six interceptions in the three February matches he was healthy for. That amounts to four tackle and two interceptions, and the magnitude of his defensive involvement exemplifies just how hard he works for Real Madrid.
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If Asensio cannot “click” on the right wing and Rodrygo Goes moves to the left or is eased slower than expected in his return from a multi-week injury, then Vazquez could start on the right side of the attack once Dani Carvajal returns. While he’s not an ideal starting right winger for a club like Real Madrid, he had a nice run of form at the position earlier this season and may be a more consistent option on that side than Asensio, who seems to be better at other positions anyway.