Jose Juninho: 13 Dec 2023

In this brief edition of the Jose Juninho Daily Merengue, we will just delve into a few observations from Jose Juninho regarding our most recent games.

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Bienvenido al Jose Juninho Edition de The Daily Merengue — a place where you can feel free to discuss all things football. Do not be alarmed by the overt RMCF bias. It’s in the name!

Shoutout to the moderators who do a fantastic job, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and LONG LIVE Jose Juninho!!!

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Observation #1: An Irresponsible Win

“To be the ultimate team, you must use your body and your mind. Draw up on the resources of your teammates. Choose your steps wisely and you will win. Remember, only teams succeed”

“There is no pressure at the top. The pressure is being second or third.”

Real Madrid won against Union Berlin 3-2 but Jude Bellingham played another 90 minute game. But Madrid won 3-2…and Real Madrid’s position at top of Group C remains unchanged and would’ve with a loss. But 3 points…and Jude is one yellow from being suspended. But its a win and Nico Paz featured for stoppage time and no longer can play in the UEFA Youth League. But 6/6…and another 80 mins on Rodrygo’s legs. 3-2…for what?

The lineup was irresponsible. The potential consequences are irresponsible.

But Juni — we won 3-2. A meaningless win against a team fighting relegation in the Bundesliga.

Observation #2: (un)Steady Hands?

“If I can’t hunt with a dog, I will hunt with a cat. With a dog you hunt more and you hunt better. But if you have not got a dog and you have got a cat, you hunt with a cat.”

According to MM polls and simply my eye test, Lunin should be the starting keeper of Real Madrid. Although my opinion isn’t as strong as most members, I do believe that the defense appears more settled with Andriy Lunin than Kepa and this isn’t really a result of today’s match which featured Fran + LV (defensive stalwarts). Kepa is better in possession and with his feet. However, imo, Lunin is better with aerial crosses, positioning, defensive organization, and often appears calmer. The difference in both goalkeepers is likely negligible but I have yet to see a Kepa Arrizabalaga performance which justifies Lunin losing his place.

Still as they often say at least in American Football — “when you have two QBs it means you actually have zero QBs” and the same can be applied to GKs. Neither has a valuable future at Real Madrid.

Observation #3: Calma Calma Calma

“It is like having a blanket that is too small for the bed, you pull the blanket up to keep your chest warm, and your feet stick out. I cannot buy a bigger blanket because the supermarket is closed. But the blanket I have is made of cashmere. So it’s good.”

On a more positive note, this team is still very good. Yes, our attacking depth isn’t brilliant. Yes, the injury situation is a bit alarming. Yes, we likely need an upgrade at fullback. But this team is still made of cashmere. We still have (debatably) the best collection of young talent, a great manager and to be frank one of the better youth academies.

Now this doesn’t negate that there is (imo clearly) room for improvement but it is also important to credit to the players, manager, and board for our current status. Hopefully, we can generate an approach that can make these results sustainable.

— Jose Juninho