Three points and four goals for Real Madrid, with Mbappé leading the way and Vinicius delivering a standout performance, clearly show that the internal calm sought by the board, the coach and the players has begun to pay off. At the very least, it has dispelled the sense of unrest that some believed was forming over Valdebebas. In reality, those clouds were never as close to the team’s day-to-day life as they were made to seem. The many embraces seen during the visit to Piraeus confirm that, despite the existence of problems, Real Madrid has managed to navigate through them, something reflected in their league lead and secure position in the Champions League.

There is no denying that tension existed, the kind that always appears whenever Real Madrid is not winning everything. Days ago, Benzema told this newspaper that a single draw is enough to fuel rumors. And that is exactly what happened. A message delivered directly from the club ensured that everyone understood their role in the story of this season. Meetings inside the dressing room during the final days of last week, phone calls and clear communication led to a noticeable shift in attitude.

The first step came from the players. Aware that something was not right and knowing that they were the ones responsible, they responded. In Athens, the connection between Vinicius and Mbappé was fully visible. It was something that had been questioned from the outside, but for them, it had never been an issue. Throughout the second half, the Frenchman repeatedly looked for opportunities to let the Brazilian share the spotlight in the scoring.

Real Madrid’s players understand they rely on each other, and they now know there is no room to challenge the coach. The strong backing that the club has given Xabi Alonso leaves no doubt, and against Olympiacos they showed that their only objective is to win and to compete for every title. Achieving that is another matter, but the intention is clear.

From the end of the match onward, Mbappé, Valverde and everyone who spoke publicly expressed their support for Xabi Alonso, who has also understood that staying close to his players is essential to earn their complete trust.

His gesture toward Vinicius after the match was deliberate. The coach wanted to show that communication exists and that the Brazilian deserves more affection and support than he has received so far. It was a hug with meaning. The conversations held between the coaching staff and the players in recent days have had an effect. Everyone knows that the direction is set by the club and the president, and after a few days of uncertainty, Real Madrid once again sees light on the horizon.

********************************************************

You can now download the Madridista News App for free on the Apple Store and Google Play.

You can follow us on Facebook here.

You can follow us on X (Twitter) here.                                                                    

You can follow us on Instagram here.

You can subscribe to our YouTube channel here.

You can follow us on Telegram here.

You can follow us on TikTok here.

You can join our WhatsApp channel here.