How to Utilize Substitutes for Victory

Football is not just a game based on the basic skills of players; it is a complete system where the substitutes’ bench plays a crucial role in achieving success. A team like Real Madrid, which competes on all fronts, understands the importance of giving opportunities to substitute players, especially with the demanding schedule and potential injuries throughout the season. In this article, we will explore how the brilliance of substitutes has been a key factor in Real Madrid’s dominance. We will analyze their role in the current season and how their performances could impact the team’s future.

The Importance of the Bench in Modern Football

In today’s football world, winning no longer depends solely on the starting eleven. Squad depth has become a decisive factor in determining a team’s fate. In major competitions such as the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and the Copa del Rey, no team can rely on just 11 players throughout the season. Under the leadership of coach Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid has recognized this reality, prioritizing squad rotation not only to rest key players but also to prepare the team for different challenges.

How Have Substitutes Contributed to Real Madrid’s Success?

Endrick – The Future Striker Makes an Impact

When Real Madrid signed Brazilian talent Endrick from Palmeiras, the plan was to gradually integrate him into the squad and develop him for the future. However, the young forward quickly defied expectations, showcasing his immense potential with every opportunity he received. Despite limited playing time, he demonstrated remarkable efficiency in front of goal, proving to be a game-changer in crucial moments. His impressive performances have not only earned him the trust of the coaching staff but also positioned him as a key player for the club’s future.

Impressive Stats:

• Scored 6 goals despite being one of the least used players in terms of minutes.
• Averaging a goal every 79 minutes, outperforming top strikers.
• Became the team’s top scorer in the Copa del Rey with 4 goals.

Andriy Lunin – The Goalkeeper of the Future Steps Up

With the return of Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from injury, many anticipated that Andriy Lunin would return to the bench, as Courtois is the first-choice keeper. However, Lunin had other plans, stepping up with exceptional performances whenever called upon. His displays in the Copa del Rey were particularly impressive, where he not only kept multiple clean sheets but also made key saves in crucial moments. Lunin’s consistency and confidence in goal have forced the coaching staff to reconsider the goalkeeper situation, showing his ability to be a reliable option for the team.

Lunin’s Stats:

• Saved 69% of the shots he faced, compared to Courtois’ 71%.
• Put in a standout performance against Real Sociedad, making several crucial saves.
• Became the first-choice goalkeeper for the Copa del Rey.

Eduardo Camavinga – Tactical Flexibility Makes the Difference

Camavinga possesses a rare and valuable ability to excel in multiple positions across the pitch, which makes him an invaluable asset to the team. With Dani Ceballos sidelined due to injury, coach Ancelotti turned to the Frenchman to fill the gap in midfield, and Camavinga rose to the challenge. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly adapt to the demands of the position, showcasing his defensive and playmaking qualities. Throughout this period, he lived up to the high expectations placed upon him, solidifying his role as a key contributor to Real Madrid’s success.

Outstanding Performance Against Real Sociedad:

• Third most touches in the match (63 times).
• 95% pass accuracy (39 accurate passes out of 41).
• Recovered the ball 4 times, contributing to both defense and attack.

The Impact of Substitutes on Real Madrid’s Future

Pushing the Starters & Increasing Competition

When substitutes shine, it creates a competitive environment within the squad, forcing starting players to raise their level to maintain their spots. For example:

• Lunin’s performances could push Courtois to deliver even stronger displays.
• Endrick’s rise may motivate attackers like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo to step up their game.

Preparing for the Post-Veteran Era

Real Madrid continues to depend on experienced veterans like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos for their leadership and quality in midfield. However, as they advance in age, it becomes increasingly important to have capable replacements ready to step in. With this in mind, players like Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have been strategically groomed to take over the reins in the coming years. Their development and performances indicate that Real Madrid has already laid the groundwork for a seamless transition, ensuring the team’s midfield remains strong and competitive for the future.

Managing Fatigue in a Long Season

Competing in the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey presents a rigorous schedule, making it nearly impossible to field the same lineup for every match. The strong performances of substitutes provide coach Ancelotti with the flexibility to rest key players without compromising the team’s overall strength. This depth allows the team to rotate effectively, ensuring that the players remain fresh and competitive throughout the long season. With reliable substitutes stepping up, Real Madrid can maintain high performance across all fronts without risking fatigue or a drop in quality.

What Can Other Teams Learn from Real Madrid’s Approach?

Real Madrid’s strategy of utilizing substitutes can serve as an important lesson for other teams:

• Give young players opportunities to prove themselves.
• Build a complete squad rather than relying on just 11 players.
• Invest in emerging talents, as seen with Endrick and Camavinga.

Conclusion

The brilliance of substitutes at Real Madrid is not merely a passing trend but a strategic approach that has allowed the team to maintain excellence across all competitions. Players like Endrick, Lunin, and Camavinga have proven that the squad’s depth can provide solutions during critical moments, ensuring the team remains competitive without over-relying on its starting lineup. This ability to rotate and trust substitutes has become a key factor in their ongoing success. If Real Madrid continues to offer opportunities to these emerging talents, the future looks promising, and we may witness a new era of dominance both in Spain and across Europe.