Real Madrid: 3 keys to victory against Athletic Club on LaLiga’s Matchday 37

Real Madrid secured a comfortable victory against Granada CF at Los Carmenes, this mid-week. There were a few things that Los Blancos did right. They had Federico Valverde playing in his much-preferred midfield role and experimented with a new defending combination that included the young Marvin Park getting his second start this season and the very acclaimed Miguel Gutierrez making his first-ever start for the first team.

For a change, it was good to see Los Merengues score some goals and dominate the scoreline. As the match ended, it was a massive 4-1 victory with goals from Luka Modric, Rodrygo Goes, Alvaro Odriozola, and Karim Benzema. They will now face Athletic Club away from home and will look to continue this dominant nature of play. As such, here are the three keys to victory at San Mames.

Fede Valverde needs to capitalize on his opportunity

Star playmaker Toni Kroos is ruled out of the upcoming game. The German came into contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19 and is now forced to isolation, reports Real Madrid CF’s official site. With him ruled out, it is a likely start for Fede Valverde.

The Uruguayan had a brilliant match the last time out. His ball-carrying helped Los Blancos create chances though he wasn’t directly involved in a goal-contribution. He will have a massive opportunity this weekend to make his case stronger for a permanent future midfield presence. He’d be starting in his preferred position and all eyes would be on him with such a massive opportunity.