Real Madrid have little hope for the remainder of the season. The club has lost all major titles this season, and La Liga does not appear to be within reach anymore.
Real Madrid still have a few games to play before attempting to capture the league title, which, even if they win all of them, is out of their grasp mathematically.
However, the team's performance improved substantially following the Copa Del Rey final. The character they displayed against Barcelona was unusual for this season and was refreshing to see.
To finish the season on a good note, three players must start every game until the end.
Arda Guler
There's little reason why the Turkish youngster shouldn't be in the final XI every time the team takes the field now.
He was unable to persuade Carlo Ancelotti earlier this season, and it is unfortunate that he was not given more serious consideration. His involvement in recent games has singlehandedly raised the team's level on the field.
Los Blancos look like a completely different team with Guler in the middle. He is raw and youthful, but his presence is overwhelming.
He is capable of creating from set pieces as well as skillfully piercing spaces.
Although Real Madrid lost the Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona, Guler gave the Catalans a hard time in the second leg. His participation in the forthcoming league El Clasico is confirmed, and it remains to be seen what impact he can have if given 90 minutes on the pitch.
Kylian Mbappe
Despite his recent flaws, Mbappe remains Real Madrid's finest attacker. He is carrying the offensive line alone, and that is a truth.
Vinicius Jr. has not been performing well recently. He has been hesitant to be his usual self. Rodrygo is already a case closed. This has left Mbappe with little options for company, but he has done brilliantly with what he has.
His performance versus Celta Vigo was quite promising. The presence and positioning between defenders was enough, and the goals he scored were incredible. His form has improved significantly after the recent pain that kept him out slightly.
It is obvious that the Frenchman's presence up top is critical for executing the game against Barcelona and continuing the streak in the coming fixtures.
Fede Valverde
One of the top players this season, and no one is talking about it.
Valverde is the heart and soul of this team. He has consistently been the greatest servant to the club, yet no one notices.
Perhaps because the standard he has set for himself is too high. What he does week in and week out is routine for him, and we have become accustomed to seeing it.
However, his impact to the team's game cannot be dismissed on this basis. He is a clinical midfielder, but also much more than that.
He defends and attacks as needed, and he steals games for Real Madrid when it is needed. He scored some of the most vital goals during a drought and wins close games from insurmountable positions.
Valverde, in my opinion, is the most reliable player in this squad, and his performance and work rate will be critical in the future games if Real Madrid are to have any hope.