By Matt Smith
Álvaro Arbeloa’s side suffered a disappointing defeat at Mallorca last time out, meaning they sit seven points behind Barcelona.
The last time the two teams met in November, Girona held on with a 1-1 draw on their home turf. Azzedine Ounahi opened the scoring that evening, with Kylian Mbappé securing the equalizer in the second half.
Team News
Federico Valverde will be available again following his suspension, but it is Franco Mastantuono’s turn to be absent due to suspension.
Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo will also be unavailable, with the duo injured.
Girona has numerous injury problems before this one.
Juan Carlos, Donny van de Beek, Portu and Marc-André ter Stegen all remain injured, while Daley Blind is doubtful for the visiting team.
Defense doesn’t win titles
Madrid may see their title hopes slip away after disappointing results in recent weeks. Despite their attacking talent, Madrid are pulling away from Barcelona, with production in the final third not what it should be.
No team has conceded fewer goals than Madrid this season, while only Getafe have conceded fewer expected goals. Perhaps this proves that defense is not winning titles, with Arbeola’s men at risk of missing out on top spot this season.
The low block of Girona arrives
Especially against teams as powerful as Madrid, Girona like to stay back and absorb pressure, looking to hit the opposition on the counterattack. Only Real Oviedo had fewer possessions in the final third per 90 minutes than Girona, with Michel’s side implementing their low block.
We’ll likely see a similar style when the two teams meet this weekend, with Girona only having 40% of the ball when they faced each other earlier in the season.
Madrid needs more Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé has had a phenomenal season with Real Madrid, scoring 40 goals in 40 appearances. The French striker has carried the Spanish giants at times, but he has failed to reach the same levels in recent weeks.
In La Liga, Mbappé has failed to produce in his last three appearances, with Madrid losing twice during that period. Mbappé is undoubtedly one of Madrid’s most important players, and when he struggles, they struggle.
Prediction
Although Madrid dropped points last time out against Girona, they have been mostly comfortable at home this season. They desperately need to turn things around, and we’re aiming for a comfortable 3-1 home win in this one.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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