Lucas Vazquez's case is quite unusual. Despite his infrequent appearances, the player continues to irritate Real Madrid fans. Sure, he has been with the squad at its most spectacular and popular periods. Whether it was the three-peat or the great comebacks in recent years, Vazquez was always present, on and off the pitch. However, there is an important discourse that must take place right now.
This season, the Spaniard hasn't been anything near his best for Los Blancos. To be completely honest, I can't recall the last time he was rock solid at the back. He is always leaking and is mainly untrustworthy. It has now become insufferable.
It makes no sense for the right-back to stay at Real Madrid after this season for three main reasons.
1. Lucas Vazquez is too old to continue at the top level
Now, don't get me wrong. Old age is not the only factor that contributes to deteriorating performance; Luka Modric is a prime illustration of this, but it is undoubtedly one of several. In Vazquez's instance, however, it appears to be the main reason.
I'm not sure whether many others have seen this, but Vazquez just does not trace back when things go wrong. The player has a strange inclination to play at a hazardous level up the side, which is OK if he is supplying effective crosses, but this does not diminish his primary obligation to defend.
The recent dismal performances have made it very evident that Vazquez's age has caught up with him, and it is past time for him to retire. At the conclusion of the season, the player will turn 34, and he has visibly lost his sheen. He will be remembered as one of the most significant players in recent history, but it is past time for him to say goodbye.
2. Lucas Vazquez is clearly not good at what the team wants from him
Learn that Vazquez was never a natural defender. He began his career as a winger who was extremely smart and cunning in his early days with the young squad. Even then, he was a decent defensive addition, capable of tracing the full side numerous times and covering both the top and bottom.
But more recently, and mostly under Zidane, the player began switching from a right-winger to a right-back, earning a more reliable and regular spot in the team. However, something seems to be wrong with him lately. He simply isn't adept at ball protection.
Perhaps it's due to his failure to adjust to this season's constantly shifting defensive squad, or simply a lack of awareness, but Vazquez isn't what he once was. He is unable to avoid leaks, continually jeopardizes the defensive position, and does not perform well on the wings. Furthermore, his performance on the wing is unnecessary. He needs to defend, but for some reason he can't.
3. Trent Alexander-Arnold is on the verge of joining Real Madrid
I think it's time to move on. Trent Alexander-Arnold, a fresh and dynamic right back, is set to join Real Madrid. Though it is agreed that his defensive impact is dubious, the young player has plenty of space for growth.
It will be interesting to see how the team evolves following Trent's arrival. If the squad will adjust to his less defensive and more forward-thinking attitude, or if the Englishman will need to improve his defensive talents significantly. However, it will be a significant improvement over Lucas Vazquez.
Trent is a footballer who gets wounded from time to time. Dani Carvajal will, however, cover for him. In exceptional instances, Fede Valverde can fill the vacancy. There is little reason to continue with Vazquez.