It has taken Zinedine Zidane just four games to tear down some of the walls he encountered when he arrived at Valdebebas. Talented, world-class players who, under Rafa Benítez, had lost the spark that led Real Madrid to sign them in the first place. The Frenchman has coaxed the likes of Dani Carvajal, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, James Rodríguez, Isco Alarcón and Jesé Rodríguez into taking a step forward and showcasing their talents. There was never any doubt that all they needed was a pep talk and some good man-management to get them back to their best and Zizou has done just that.
Of course, the hardest part of the season is yet to come. Real Madrid have not given up on the title race and they now face several must-win games. Elsewhere, the Champions League is the club’s other main objective. Zidane is preparing his players to see off Roma in the last sixteen. For now, having seen their performance against Espanyol, the Frenchman is on the right track with the bulk of his squad.
Bron: Marca
