Sun Jan 11 19:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Madrid Derby Heads to Jeddah: Former Players and Coaches Weigh In
The Story:
Former players and coaches from both Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have offered their insights into the upcoming Madrid derby, set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The match is viewed as evenly balanced, with experts highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. The absence of Mbappé from Real Madrid’s lineup and the potential impact of Gonzalo as his replacement are key talking points, along with Atlético’s defensive solidity versus Real Madrid’s individual brilliance.
Key Points:
* The Madrid derby will be played in Jeddah, approximately 4,500 kilometers from Madrid.
* Quique Sánchez Flores sees the match as a 50-50 affair, noting Atlético’s recent dip in form and Real Madrid’s inconsistencies.
* Mista believes this derby could be the most equal in recent years.
* José Manuel Jurado emphasizes Atlético’s strong defense and Real Madrid’s individual talent.
* Miguel Soler highlights Atlético’s defensive strength but notes their need to convert chances into goals. He also suggests Gonzalo might be a better fit than a partially fit Mbappé for Real Madrid in this specific match.
Key Takeaways:
* The Madrid derby being held in Saudi Arabia signifies the globalization of Spanish football.
* Experts believe the match is incredibly balanced, making it difficult to predict a winner.
* The absence of Mbappé may not be a significant disadvantage for Real Madrid, as Gonzalo could provide a tactical advantage.
* Atlético needs to improve their finishing to capitalize on their defensive solidity.
* Xabi is under pressure to deliver a title, which may impact his long-term planning.
First Piper 