Real Madrid showcased an impressive performance at Montilivi, securing a commanding win against Girona.
The result mirrored last season’s success at the same venue, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side demonstrating their dominance throughout the match.
Goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Kylian Mbappe sealed the victory, highlighting the team’s firepower and cohesion.
Ancelotti on Rodrygo’s absence
Rodrygo missed the Girona clash. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)
One notable absentee from the game was Rodrygo, who was sidelined due to a recent muscle issue.
The decision to leave him behind at Valdebebas was made to prioritise his recovery, ensuring he would be fit for upcoming fixtures.
“He wasn’t feeling well and we preferred to leave him at Valdebebas to work, I think he’ll be available,” said Ancelotti after the match.
This cautious approach reflects the depth of Real Madrid’s squad and their ability to adapt when key players are unavailable.
Bellingham and Mbappe’s form
Mbappe was on the scoresheet vs Girona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Jude Bellingham once again stole the show, scoring his fifth consecutive goal, underlining his pivotal role in the team’s success. Mbappe also found the back of the net, showcasing his return to form.
Guler added to the tally with a brilliant second-half goal, further solidifying his position as a rising star in the squad.
Brahim Diaz also contributed significantly, putting in a hardworking and effective display. These performances indicate the growing strength and balance within the team as they continue to build momentum.
“Bellingham has scored his fifth goal in a row. He is back and in good shape. Today Mbappe scored too, like Arda, Brahim did a good job…
“We have to hold the moment, little by little we are coming back. We had to hold on at the beginning of the game, they pressed well,” he added.
Raul Asencio’s absence
Raul Asencio did not start against Girona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Ancelotti made strategic decisions regarding player rotation, particularly with Raul Asensio, who was not in the starting lineup.
The decision was due to the short recovery time after the Bilbao match, as fatigue had taken its toll. In his place, Asencio showed his reliability and skill, delivering a solid performance at the back.
“It was because of the short recovery period, it had taken him a little longer to recover after Bilbao, I think it was just a problem of fatigue.
“Raul has shown all his qualities, he is a very good player, a very reliable centre-back.”
On Arda Guler
Arda Guler repaid Ancelotti’s trust. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Guler’s goal, in particular, was a moment of relief and confidence for the young talent. After struggling to make an impact in the first half, he turned things around with a remarkable effort in the second.
“It took him a while to get into the game, he worked hard, he wasn’t successful in the first half, but in the second he scored a fantastic goal. What I want to highlight is his work, he runs a lot, and he helps the team.”
His determination and defensive work stood out, proving his value to the team. The goal not only lifted the pressure off his shoulders but also highlighted his potential to shine in future matches.
“The goal takes a little pressure off him, he’s a young man with a lot of pressure around him and it’s good for him to get rid of a little,” he added.
Real Madrid’s comprehensive display at Montilivi sends a clear message: the squad is finding its rhythm, and key players are stepping up at crucial moments.
Source: AS