Defensive organization, a physically dominant midfield and a playmaker with complete freedom — that is the formula currently shaping Real Madrid. In many ways, it closely resembles the diamond system once introduced by Carlo Ancelotti after the departure of Karim Benzema. The club may have ushered in a new era with a change of coach, but the most logical solution has been to return to familiar principles. At this stage, practicality outweighs experimentation, and consistency has proven more valuable than innovation.

The midfield is built around Tchouaméni as the anchor, with Valverde drifting toward the right and Camavinga leaning to the left. While modern football no longer adheres to rigid formations, this structure provides balance and clarity. Valverde and Camavinga stretch the pitch, support the full-backs and create space in central areas, offering energy and physical presence that hold the system together.

The key piece is the free-roaming playmaker, currently Arda Güler. He drifts wide, drops deep alongside Tchouaméni when needed and appears between the lines to accelerate attacks. Unpredictable and intelligent, he connects midfield to attack and injects creativity into the final third. The pending return of Jude Bellingham raises questions about how the dynamic will adjust, but for now Güler has seized his opportunity and is thriving.

Earlier turbulence, including the departure of Xabi Alonso and setbacks in domestic and European competitions, had created uncertainty around Chamartín. The atmosphere was fragile, yet stability has gradually returned. Whether this structure will be enough against Europe’s elite such as Arsenal, Bayern Munich or PSG remains to be seen, but it currently feels like the most viable path forward.

Defensive solidity has become the foundation. Madrid are taking fewer risks in their build-up when facing intense pressure, showing greater compactness and increasing support between the lines. The improved structure has translated into clean sheets and a more controlled game state. Up front, the approach is measured rather than reckless. Arbeloa wants coordinated pressing without draining his attackers, ensuring that Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé remain fresh enough to decide matches in decisive moments.

It is not a revolutionary transformation, but it is an efficient one. Madrid have rediscovered balance, combining structure with freedom in key areas of the pitch. For now, that balance is producing results and restoring confidence.

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