Real Madrid Confidencial Mijatovic gets serious with Xabi: the two things he can't do at Real Madrid
The former footballer believes that Güler can't be burned out in the central midfielder position and states that he must provide a game plan
Real Madrid is already thinking about the 2025/26 season. The painful elimination against PSG in the Club World Cup left many doubts in the air. Pedja Mijatovic, a legend of the white club, hasn't hesitated to raise his voice.
In a conversation on El Larguero, the Montenegrin former footballer sent a direct message to Xabi Alonso. For him, there are two mistakes the new coach can't make.
"Güler can't be the new Modric"
Mijatovic was very clear when talking about the midfield. He believes the team lacks creativity after the departures of Kroos and Modric.
Although he views Arda Güler's talent positively, he warns: "Giving Güler Modric's role would be suicide". The former footballer believes the Turk has potential, but he's not ready to carry the weight of the team.
"When Modric arrived, he also struggled to get going. It took him time to shine. Patience is needed", he recalls.
That's why he asks that pressure not be put on him right away. Bernabéu, he says, doesn't wait. But burning out a young talent can be very costly: "We can't place that responsibility on his shoulders so soon", he insists.
"Players shouldn't be burned out so soon"
For Mijatovic, Xabi Alonso's biggest challenge will be managing the locker room. What's coming isn't just a matter of signings. It's also about brave decisions.
"At Madrid there's no patience, but that doesn't mean we have to destroy the development of young players", he states.
He speaks from experience. He has seen many promising players fail to settle due to a lack of time and trust.
He especially focuses on how players like Güler, Camavinga, or even Vinícius are managed.
About the latter, he offers a disturbing reflection: "I don't know if the fans are as in love with Vinícius as they were two years ago. I don't know if he has the same respect for them".
That's why he warns: accumulating talent without a clear idea can backfire: "Many players with great value don't guarantee results. If you don't give them a role, they end up leaving. You don't place them on the market easily", he points out.
The message has been sent. Mijatovic sees a good leader in Xabi, but he demands a cool head. Above all, that he doesn't repeat the mistakes of the past.
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