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This proved to be almost a perfect day for Xabi Alonso's squad, who defeated Barcelona 2-1 during El Clasico to stretch their advantage at the summit of La Liga to five points.

Jude Bellingham got his maiden domestic strike and key pass this campaign after a difficult few months recovering from surgery on his shoulder.

The French forward showed his clinical form when scoring, and Alonso's tactics in his inaugural El Clasico on the sidelines proved brilliantly.

However the Vinicius Junior question came to the forefront once more.

Unhappy at being substituted, the Brazilian winger ranted on his way right by Xabi Alonso and headed down the tunnel, before coming back to the substitute area after a short while.

Alonso System Yields Positive Outcomes for Bellingham

In his first derby, this wasn't a bad one, considering the majority of Madrid's previous eight coaches were defeated in their first La Liga encounter with Barcelona.

Following the laissez-faire method under Ancelotti failed to get results in the previous campaign, the new tactical system produced a significant outcome.

An expert commented, His plan was perfect. Madrid were impressive, and the visitors were off-color due to what Real Madrid were doing.”

“Without the ball, they pushed up consistently, and if they were beaten, they retreated in a structured manner, all players even Vinicius.”

Their defensive setup in two layers with a gap of 5-10 meters. Barca could not find a way through.”

The tactical change appears to be beneficial for the midfielder, who in the past was expected to cover multiple roles in the center and additional duties.

In the lineup the 22-year-old was positioned on the right, however he could to drift inward and support Mbappe or enter the box.

The analyst added, “By using Eduardo Camavinga in central midfield, you get greater energy and better ability to shut down the passing lanes.”

This led to the team to deploy Bellingham on the right-hand side. I'm sure he would have been asked to monitor Mbappe's movements when he had the ball with room, and he found him a few times.”

His instructions included to enter the area and position himself near the edge of the box, where he poses a threat. He also came inside to cut off passing options creating the opponent's play very difficult.”

Conflict Issues Exposed

There's no doubting that supporters adore Vinicius, his name rang out repeatedly by a fervent Madrid fans.

Yet multiple numerous stories in recent months that the club would consider selling him if the right offer was made.

Vinicius will have one season to go under his current terms when this term concludes, yet talks over a new deal have stalled.

Vinicius' behavior after coming off in the second half suggested issues. When the match ended, he was held back as he tried to approach Yamal.

The analyst noted, He will face backlash and justifiably, as it demonstrated disrespect for Rodrygo who replaced him.”

“But since being a kid, he has lived amid adversity, and he believes that everyone is against him.”

This mindset is tough to overcome, especially when you feel near number one in the world, but the team redirects attention towards Mbappe as the main man.”

During this campaign he believes that the organization is not defending him. Rumors indicate, potentially club-sourced, or not denied by the club, that they would be open a bid of €250 million for him and sell him.”

He is aware of this, and when Alonso subbed him – justifiably, as he ceased tracking back as required – in Vinicius' head he questions ‘why me, why me again?.”

“It will be difficult to mend relations with the club and the player now.”

Barca's Approach “Crumbles”

Following victories in all four of last season's derbies, this outing was emblematic of their uncertain beginning of the season.

Absences have deprived the manager of important stars including the Brazilian winger, Robert Lewandowski plus others, and his system isn't working without them.

The analyst said, Barcelona appear lack sharpness when not in possession, with less desire to win it back, less aggressive to reclaim the ball.”

“It's easier to break them down. If the defensive line is flawed, which was the case Mbappe's strike since the defender played him onside, they receive little support by the midfield and forwards not closing down those on the ball as expected.”

Yamal, who troubled Madrid of Real last season, was kept largely in check.

“Their stars weren't at their best. Lamine appears he's in good form, possibly because of groin problems