The game in Seville was both a glimmer of hope and the death of it. It was a terrific game, and I believe this is the first time I've said that this season.
The Real Madrid squad showed character and performed as expected. The second half was one of the finest football performances I've watched so far this season. Everything was solid, and two key goals arrived late in the game, sending Madrid into extra time.
Only in the second half of extra time did Brahim make a mistake that lost Real Madrid the whole game and a huge title that might have been not only the first official trophy of the season, but also the one that would have ended Barcelona's treble dreams.
The loss was difficult to observe because of the fight that the players put up, without a doubt. But there were those players who were as bad as they usually are, and it is finally time to have a debate about parting ways with them.
At least three Real Madrid players ought to be sold in light of their performance yesterday.
Fran Garcia
Fran was just terrible yesterday. He was the most leaky player and did the most harm to Real Madrid's defense. And it's always like this. He is not a good defender, nor is he a decent front man.
Additionally, occasionally the errors are too severe. Lamine Yamal was able to quickly identify and take advantage of his seriously defective decision-making ability.
Fran can't seem to know when to charge, when to defend his position, and when to take a risk. He's just horrible.
This season, Real Madrid's left back position has been one of its most susceptible. And Ferland Mendy hasn't done anything noteworthy either. It is time for the club to carefully evaluate and discuss mending the holes that are clear as day.
Rodrygo Goes
Yeah, I know. This is the most contentious opinion, but let me play Mark Antony and borrow your ears for a while. We need to admit that Rodrygo has been really awful. Not just recently, but for the entire season. If this were a recent phenomenon, his name would not be included; unfortunately, it is not.
The Brazilian's presence is virtually non-existent. He is ineffective up front and poses almost little attacking threat. The onus of a decent forward makeup is currently on Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe, which plainly demonstrates Rodrygo's lack of presence.
He is regarded as Real Madrid's dependable asset in the Champions League, although he has not achieved anything noteworthy there either. In the league, he is terrible. In La Liga, his last goal contribution came in January. If that isn't terrible, I'm not sure what is.
It is time for fans to go beyond their nostalgia for the comebacks he was a part of and face reality. He does not presently have a spot on the team. If he repairs it, it is his responsibility. However, the current situation is simply negative.
Manchester City has previously expressed an interest in him. I suggest the club start thinking about it.
Antonio Rudiger
Is this page becoming a compendium of the most recent Real Madrid opinions? Listen to me. Antonio Rudiger is well beyond his peak. The only positive aspect is that him being past his greatness is still decent today. However, this will not continue indefinitely.
The Real Madrid board must recognize that Rudiger is an asset that is degrading quicker than usual. He is experiencing a dramatic deterioration, which is becoming more evident. He is impulsive in defense and does not make sound judgments now.
Barcelona's second goal yesterday provided a fantastic illustration. There was no reason for him not to win the duel. Many people may blame Thibaut Courtois for the goal, but I believe the ball should not have traveled that far in the first place. Rudiger is an athletic and towering defender known for his aggressive style of play, yet he did not emerge when it was most required.
Still, the German is good right now. He is uncomfortable, but he is still OK. But it is a sailing boat that will not return. By next season, he will be a problem to deal with due to his age and poor performance. And there will be no suitors to take him. I say sell him now while he is still excellent and bring in Dean Huijsen based on his release clause.