Real Madrid 6-1 Monaco: 'World class' star puts in 'performance of his life'

Real Madrid thrashed AS Monaco 6-1 and made a statement after a week of negativity that needed a win like tonight. Kylian Mbappe (2), Franco Mastantuono, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Thilo Kehrer's own goal made it a perfect night for Alvaro Arbeloa.

Any doubts over Arbeloa's position as caretaker manager were firmly put to bed as Los Blancos put in a dominant performance. Vinicius played through the jeers and produced a stunning showing while others caught the eye at the Estadio Bernabeu.

Arbeloa made some interesting tactical decisions ahead of the game, prompting some supporters to question his team selection. But he got it spot on, especially his bold decision over one of his midfielders.

Real Madrid 6-1 Monaco - Camavinga wows at the Bernabeu

Arbeloa decided to start with Eduardo Camaving and Federico Valverde at full-back. While Valverde has been used at right-back many times this season, Camavinga hadn't played at left-back since December 2024.

Camavinga put in arguably his best performance of the season, not just defensively but on the ball, pulling off several eye-catching pieces of skill. He started off a phenomenal move when he flicked the ball onto Arda Guler, who played it over to Vinicius, whose trivela was then converted by Mbappe.

The French midfielder won all six of his ground duels, made four clearances, two interceptions and four recoveries. He looked full of confidence at left-back and might have given Arbeloa something to ponder regarding continuing with him in the position.

Alvaro Carreras has made a promising start to his Madrid career but might be looking over his shoulder if Camavinga continues to shine at left-back. It's a welcome headache for their manager who knows he can turn to the France international with Carreras out injured.

Real Madrid fans hail Marcelo-esque Camavinga

Camavinga's display didn't go unnoticed by fans who were full of praise for the 23-year-old. He was compared by one fan to Madrid legend Marcelo: "How Camavinga be movin today on that left back position with all those skills and flicks."

Another supporter labelled him: "CAMAVINGA WORLD CLASS."

One fan explained why Camavinga is better at left-back: "Yes Camavinga. Whenever Cama receives the ball in midfield, the only thing he does is looks for the person that will foul him. He's way better at LB."

Another predicted yet more European glory: "Camavinga left back shifts are back we are winning the Champions League."

One wrote: "Camavinga give us a performance of his life. this guy Is a good left back."

Another Madridista suggested Camavinga is one of three midfielders who should be playing in defense: "We have potentially generationally maybe all timer defenders in Fede(RB), Tchouameni(CB), Camavinga(LB) disguised as midfielders the earlier they accept those positions the better for them and the team."

One fan added: "CAMAVINGA WORLD CLASS."

Arbeloa explained before the game that Camavinga would position himself in midfield on the attack and allow Vinicius to take the wing. It worked a treat as Madrid made it five wins from seven Champions League games.

It will be interesting to see the team that the Spaniard selects for the away trip to Villarreal on Saturday (January 24th). Suddenly the mood has improved and there's a La Liga title for Los Blancos to win amid sitting just a point behind Barcelona.