Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez has come under increased criticism from the Spanish media for the defensive tactics deployed in games. Benitez, however, has come out and defended the tactics which has seen Real Madrid top the table.
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Real are level on top of the table with FC Barcelona on 21 points from their 9 games.
Benitez defends tactics
Defending the criticism of his tactics ahead of the Las Palmas clash, he was quoted as saying by Goal.com: “If I were not Spanish or from Madrid, coming from another country, I would say ‘What’s going on here?”
“But Madrid are a great club who are used to being high up the table. The anti-Madridistas will look at things differently.
“We have to enjoy our status as undefeated leaders and not waste time with what other people say.”
Benitez reveals injury crisis
The Real manager revealed that a host of his key players were missing ahead of the tie against the relegation battler.
“Keylor has a small problem. We’re not going to risk him, Ramos, Benzema or James. We have the resources to face the next game,” said Benitez.
“Gareth is on track [in his recovery from a calf injury], as we hoped. We won’t force the situation, with him or James.
“Our priority is to do the best for Madrid and the players we have. James trained today, he felt good. We’ll look at things on Monday and see if he is ready then [for the Champions League]. I’m optimistic.”
Benitez critics harsh
The Real Madrid side is top of the table, having conceded just three goals in nine games — the least in the tournament so far. While some people would say this hardly shrugs off the criticism of their defensive football, the fact that Real Madrid are also the top scorers in La Liga with 21 goals, seals any debate of how good they have been this season.
While some people remain unconvinced by Benitez’s tactics, stats certainly paint a picture in his favour.
