Only he is not really a traditional creative midfielder at Madrid (that’s more Modric and Kroos). Up until recently he hasn’t been providing many assists (mostly a great work rate and smart positioning to score). I think his ceiling will become more apparent once those two move on and he becomes the focus of defences.

Scary to think of how strong the two top clubs must have been right?

The “lack of competition” teams (Sevilla, Athletico, Villarreal, Valencia) you are referring to also dominated Europa Cup the last 20 years.

I didn’t realize that they were actually one of organizers of the original tournament and that it was invite only. Apparently the better European teams often declined the invite because it was akin to a preseason tourney with little to no prestige. Certainly puts their first 5 trophies in a different light…

I didn’t realize that they were actually one of organizers of the original tournament and that it was invite only. Apparently the better European teams often declined the invite because it was akin to a preseason tourney with little to no prestige. Certainly puts their first 5 trophies in a different light…

This comment should be higher.