[THREAD] A closer look at the 19/20 La Liga champions. How have #RealMadrid evolved since they last won the league title? How have Zidane’s men adapted since the departure of their star forward Cristiano Ronaldo?

A basic look at the numbers demonstrates the most stark contrast. Zidane has made a tradeoff: compromising a more devastating attacking approach to create a more formidable defensive side.

We see why here. All of Madrid’s forwards, with the exception of Benzema, have only played around 1000 minutes. Star signing, Eden Hazard, has struggled with injuries all season, meaning Zidane has had to rely on youngsters like Vinicius Jr or under performers like Bale.

Indeed Madrid’s attack has suffered with Hazard’s injuries. When he's been available, Los Blancos have been able to create and convert higher quality chances.

With that said, Hazard has only been able to start 14 matches in the league this season.

Consequently, Zidane has depended heavily on a 4-man midfield setup, with one of Modric or Isco accompanying Casemiro, Kroos, and Valverde.

In possession, Valverde would often operate as a wide-man down the right-flank. Madrid’s attack has often suffered as a consequence.

As a result, much of the offensive burden has fallen on Karim Benzema, and he has duly delivered. Benzema has unsurprisingly been a much bigger focal point in Madrid’s attack than he was in 16/17.

At 32 years of age, this has been one of his best campaigns for Real Madrid.

Toni Kroos meanwhile, has had a great bounce back season. His importance in build-up & progressing the ball cannot be understated, while he has also increased his offensive output to help Benzema carry the load in attack. An overall wonderful season for Kroos.

With a declining attack, Madrid have had to focus on improving their defense. The key to this improvement has been their stifling mid-block structure. As you can see, they've focused most of their pressing in the mid-3rd, and have primarily recovered the ball in the mid/low-3rd.

As a result, Madrid have allowed fewer deep completions & passes in the final 3rd, and have conceded fewer positional and counter attacks. Moreover, a lower percentage of those attacks have resulted in shots.

Casemiro has had a vital impact on this defensive improvement.

Here we can see two examples of Madrid’s aggressive mid-block, and Casemiro’s defensive prowess in particular. In both examples, Los Blancos successfully recover the ball in the mid-3rd and prevent attacks before they even occur. This has been key to their improvement.

Moreover, it would be remiss to discuss Real Madrid’s defensive improvement without mentioning the brilliant season Thibaut Courtois has had in goal. The Belgian has been one of the standout keepers in Europe this season, and has directly prevented a great number of goals.

Finally, it's important to note that other players such as Varane, Mendy, Carvajal, & Ramos have likewise been brilliant, & crucial, for Madrid.

@Shaharyarsays piece can provide further insight into Madrid's defensive improvements this season. https://twitter.com/BTLvid/status/1281670452172251138?s=20

All-in-all, this has been a great campaign by Real Madrid, and a true testament to Zidane’s adaptability as a manager.

With a healthy Hazard moving forward, and a plethora of talented young players, the future looks bright in the Spanish capital.

RT's & Feedback appreciated!