Roncero: Güler is a genius, delivered a masterclass in 23 minutes

In the 5th round of La Liga, Real Madrid defeated Rayo Vallecano 4-1 at home. After the match, AS deputy editor-in-chief Roncero wrote an article commenting on the game, focusing on praising substitute Güler, calling him a "genie in a lamp" and believing he should be an undisputed starter.

Another big win

Mourinho's Real Madrid has become very strong at home. The Bernabéu continues to witness this team, built to win and score goals, constantly achieving victories and scoring many goals. Although they still wasted some very clear chances, under this Portuguese coach, Real Madrid has become more ferocious. It is precisely because of this hunger in the attacking third that opponents start to make mistakes, and Real Madrid then mercilessly punishes them.

Lejeune completely lost his composure. First, he gave away a childish penalty; then he lost possession to Vinicius, and finally Carreras and Mbappé completed a spectacular one-two. Mbappé was also one of the biggest winners of this summer night.

At halftime, Rayo Vallecano had been completely overwhelmed by this explosive Real Madrid, who played with joy and took their chances precisely. In their goal stood Indonesian goalkeeper Emil Audero, who in the future can tell his grandchildren that he once played in the best stadium in the world. On the other end, Thibaut Courtois continued to make miraculous saves that only he can make, defusing dangerous situations repeatedly during Rayo Vallecano's few attacks. But then, Real Madrid fell asleep...

The old problem

We saw this situation last season. Real Madrid, strong and dominant in the first half, returned to the pitch like a different team—cold and without sparkle, as if the game was already over.

Rayo Vallecano noticed this vulnerability, increased their intensity, and consequently scored through Sergio Camello. This excellent striker won an Olympic gold medal two years ago in the Olympic final against France.

The light came on

In the 70th minute, Güler came on as a substitute, replacing Jan Diomande, who made his first start of the season. The Ivorian player showed something, but still didn't perform well enough to justify his hefty price tag.

But Güler delivered a masterclass in his 23 minutes on the field. He orchestrated attacks, provided assists, created space, drew fouls, and took corners beautifully. He also created a very clear penalty that the referee did not award, and his brilliant touches repeatedly brought the fans to their feet. He is the genie in the lamp, a player who can make a difference. In my opinion, he should undoubtedly start. Now coach Mourinho must solve this puzzle: who should be dropped from the starting lineup so that we can see this genius from the beginning of the match...

The story with Rayo Vallecano

This is a likable opponent and a typical community team. I grew up in Carabanchel, so I know the sense of belonging such a place can give you. This familiar Rayo Vallecano is also where my journalistic career began. In 1985, I first covered a game as a journalist—it was in the Segunda División, Rayo Vallecano versus Hércules, a morning match.

The stands were filled with people enjoying wineskins and eating salami sandwiches, and everyone was in good spirits. Rayo Vallecano won 2-1. Since then, I've always had a soft spot for them. However, my friend Jorge Valdano might not share this sentiment. On January 20, 1996, while coaching Real Madrid, he lost to Rayo Vallecano at the Bernabéu, with Guillermo scoring twice for the visitors, and Valdano was subsequently dismissed.

I also won't forget that incredible 10-2 victory. Rafa Benítez was coaching Real Madrid then—Bale scored 4 goals, Benzema scored 3, Cristiano Ronaldo scored 2, and Danilo scored 1. Even so, Real Madrid fans at the time still expressed dissatisfaction with the team's style of play.

Today, Rayo Vallecano's management still includes two Real Madrid academy graduates, Cobeño and Portillo, the latter being the historical top scorer of the now-defunct Real Madrid youth academy at the old sports city. All in all, Rayo Vallecano is a very likable team. However, we also know that Real Madrid often struggle whenever they visit Vallecas, especially in recent years.

Hopefully, when they next visit on January 31, 2027, Real Madrid can return to playing at their home stadium in their own community instead of continuing their "exile" at the Butarque stadium...

Everyone goes to watch F1

After completing their tasks, a considerable number of team members will be in Madrid today for this historic event that fascinates our stars. Hopefully, Mourinho's Real Madrid can become a Ferrari this year...

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