La Liga Round 22: Real Madrid's Defensive Struggles and Barcelona Fighting for Xavi's Future

The 22nd round of La Liga matches continued on the night of January 27, with Real Madrid facing significant defensive issues in 2024. The primary cause of their increased goals conceded has been injuries and a lack of rotation options, leading to over-reliance on players like Antonio Rüdiger. This problem will require both time and medical intervention to resolve. Meanwhile, Barcelona's recent elimination from the Copa del Rey has put them in a precarious position, potentially facing a trophyless season. If Xavi wants to retain his position as head coach, he must significantly improve the team's performance.

Las Palmas vs. Real Madrid: A Battle of Top Defenses

If not for Girona's exceptional performance this season, last year's Segunda División runner-up, Las Palmas, would have garnered more headlines. Currently, this promoted team is just four points away from the European competition spots and boasts the second-best defensive record in La Liga. They secured their survival in the top flight early, showcasing their defensive prowess. In their last match against Rayo Vallecano, Las Palmas utilized their tight defense to limit the quality of their opponent's shots while capitalizing on counter-attacks to win 2-0.

Notably, Las Palmas, traditionally known for their strong defense and weak offense, has scored five goals in their last two matches, significantly improving their attacking capabilities. This development is causing concern among Real Madrid fans. Despite still having the best defensive record in La Liga, Real Madrid has conceded goals in five consecutive matches since their first 2024 game, a clean-sheet victory over Mallorca. In their last match against Almería, Real Madrid shockingly conceded within the first minute due to a midfield error and another goal before halftime. Fortunately, Jude Bellingham stepped up, converting a penalty and assisting Dani Carvajal's stoppage-time winner.

Spanish media have criticized Carlo Ancelotti's over-reliance on his starting lineup, particularly Rüdiger, who has only missed one La Liga match due to suspension and another in the Copa del Rey for rest. With Éder Militão and David Alaba injured, Ancelotti has no other central defenders available for rotation, making Rüdiger's rest essential yet challenging. Real Madrid has kept clean sheets in their last three encounters against Las Palmas, and they aim to secure a 2-1 away victory in this match.

Barcelona vs. Villarreal: Xavi's Fight to Keep His Job

Barcelona's midweek Copa del Rey exit at the hands of former coach Ernesto Valverde's Athletic Bilbao not only cost them a shot at a trophy but also put Xavi's job at risk. If Barcelona fails to win any silverware this season, Xavi might face dismissal. After losing in two cup competitions in January, Barcelona's remaining hopes for a title rest on La Liga and the Champions League, both of which seem challenging given their current form.

Villarreal, who have finished in the top seven in the past four seasons, are struggling this season, sitting just five points above the relegation zone. Despite two managerial changes, their problems persist. Defensive issues are Villarreal's biggest problem, having already conceded more goals this season than the entirety of the last campaign. Even teams with weaker attacks, like Las Palmas, have breached their defense multiple times. Another managerial change might be imminent.

In their first encounter this season, both teams scored seven goals in a thrilling back-and-forth match, with Barcelona experiencing a roller-coaster of taking the lead, falling behind, and then regaining the advantage. Although Barcelona is not in peak form, Villarreal's situation is worse. Despite having a fitness edge, Villarreal will struggle to leave the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys with a favorable result. Barcelona is expected to win 3-1.

Real Madrid's Defensive Woes and Player Overuse

Real Madrid's defensive stability has been a cornerstone of their success, but 2024 has exposed vulnerabilities. The increase in goals conceded is primarily due to injuries and a lack of rotation, which has led to players like Rüdiger being overused. Ancelotti's dependence on his main players is understandable given the injury crisis, but it has also highlighted the squad's depth issues.

Rüdiger's situation is particularly concerning. Having missed only one La Liga game due to suspension and another in the Copa del Rey, he has been a constant presence in the team. The absence of Militão and Alaba has left Ancelotti with no choice but to play Rüdiger in every match. This heavy workload is unsustainable and raises the risk of injury or burnout.

The Importance of Rotating Players

Successful teams manage player fitness through effective rotation. Real Madrid's current predicament underscores the importance of squad depth and the ability to rest key players without compromising performance. Ancelotti's challenge is to navigate this period while keeping his main players fit and finding solutions within the squad.

Las Palmas: The Defensive Revelation

Las Palmas has been a revelation this season, particularly in defense. Their ability to limit opponents' quality chances while effectively counter-attacking has been key to their success. The recent improvement in their attacking output has added a new dimension to their game, making them a more well-rounded team.

Real Madrid's task will be to break down this resilient defense while managing their own defensive frailties. The match against Las Palmas will test their ability to adapt and overcome their current challenges.

Barcelona's Quest for Stability and Silverware

Barcelona's season has been turbulent, with the Copa del Rey exit adding pressure on Xavi. The team's inconsistent performances have raised questions about their ability to compete for major titles. Xavi's tenure is at a crossroads, and the upcoming matches will be crucial for his future.

The loss to Athletic Bilbao was a significant blow, not just for the missed opportunity but also for the psychological impact on the team. Barcelona needs to regain their focus and find a way to consistently perform at a high level.

Villarreal's Struggles and Defensive Issues

Villarreal's defensive struggles have been their downfall this season. The team's inability to keep clean sheets has cost them valuable points, and their position near the relegation zone is a stark contrast to their usual top-seven finishes. The frequent managerial changes have not stabilized the team, and further changes might be necessary.

Key Players and Tactical Adjustments

Both Real Madrid and Barcelona need their key players to step up. For Real Madrid, Bellingham's form will be crucial, as his ability to influence matches could be the difference in tight games. Similarly, Barcelona will look to their experienced players to guide them through this challenging period.

Tactically, both teams need to address their defensive issues. For Real Madrid, this means finding a way to rotate their squad without losing defensive solidity. Barcelona, on the other hand, needs to shore up their backline and avoid the lapses in concentration that have cost them dearly.

Conclusion

The 22nd round of La Liga presents significant challenges for both Real Madrid and Barcelona. Real Madrid must navigate their defensive crisis while maintaining their push for the title. Barcelona, under immense pressure, must improve their performances to keep Xavi's job safe and avoid a trophyless season. As the season progresses, the ability of both teams to adapt and overcome their respective challenges will determine their success.