Villarreal – Real Madrid: Quique Sétien Does His Old Employers A Favor (2-1)

Real Madrid wished to assert their leadership of LaLiga, but an old occupant of their rivals’ dugout sought to upset their plans. A high press, clever work in buildup, and a decisive duel on the wings swung the tie in favor of Villarreal. The reign of their new manager is well underway. 

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Carlo Ancelotti continues his swansong with grace at Real Madrid. The old guard and new talent in the squad roster have flourished in equal measure under his wing, claiming a LaLiga and Champions League double by the end of May 2022. And more glory might adorn the final chapter of his career in the dugout. The reigning champions sit level on points with Barcelona, hunting their third league title in the last four years. The opportunity to go clear of the Catalans at the summit was in their hands.

In their way was a club that have held them to goalless draws in their last two clashes. Unai Emery's pragmatism and poise have rendered Villarreal a stubborn opponent for the guests, but he is no longer in charge of the Yellow Submarine. In his place is Quique Sétien, whose back to back victories in his last two league fixtures have set in motion his reign. Those wins have now placed the club in seventh spot, a point off the Conference League berth, and are a platform to strive toward Europe once more.

Sétien has authored a switch from a 4-4-2 formation to a 4-3-3 shape. Álex Baena featured as the left sided interior . . .