Zidane? A change was needed. I would give Hazard another chance, says Marek Galajda of the World of Real Madrid fan club

Real Madrid had a season without a trophy for the first time in several years, although they fought until the last moment for the league title and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League. There was a change on the coach’s bench, but there was no major shake-up in the squad. We asked Marek Galajda, who runs the World of Real Madrid fan club, what he expects from the new season.

How satisfied were you with the past season?

I’m quite satisfied with last season, but of course I missed the trophy. In La Liga we were in the title race until the last round, in the Champions League I think we unexpectedly made it to the semi-finals where we failed against a strong Chelsea side that ended up dominating the whole competition. The disappointment was in the Copa del Rey, where we unexpectedly crashed out in the 3rd round.

Was it difficult to accept the departure of Zinedine Zidane or was it necessary?

Of course. Zizu was the coach under whom we achieved an incredible success, namely winning 3 consecutive Champions League. He is a Real Madrid legend, but a change was already needed. The team needed a new impetus and to play football that will please the Real Madrid fans again.

How do you think the new coach will fare?

Carlo is a great coach under whom we played beautiful football. In the 13/14 season we managed to win the Eared trophy under his leadership after a long time. Unforgettable La Décima. I think Carlo can start the Real Madrid machine again.

Which player in the squad has the most potential to grow in performance this season?

I think Vinícius Jr. He already has 3 goals after two rounds in the league. He scored 3 goals in the league all last season, so I think if he gets enough game time, he could be the one.

What do you think of the interim transfer window?

So surely none of the Real Madrid fans can be happy. The biggest disappointment is the signing of captain and legend Sergio Ramos as a free agent to PSG. Varane was looking for new motivation, having won everything he could at Real Madrid. The transfer of Ødegaard, who probably didn’t want to fight for a place in the team, is also a bit disappointing. Pleased with the arrival of Alaba, who is proving to be a great signing so far.

What other positions do you think could be added to the squad?

Definitely in attack. It would take more productive wingers like in the days of the legendary BBC attack.

What do you expect from the new season?

I expect an improved game expression. In the league to fight for the title, I think this season there will be a great chance to win it. In the Champions League we can only surprise, as we won’t be favourites, but Real Madrid is always Real Madrid and we’ll see what the season brings.

Do you see a slight decline in the quality of La Liga (players leaving, etc.)? What do you think is the solution?

Of course. The two best players in the world are already in other leagues, which has certainly reduced the quality and attractiveness of the league. But I think that gradually Real Madrid and Barcelona will start building great and competitive teams again, even with a new president. The solution is probably the arrival of big names again, which will increase the attractiveness and quality of the league.

How would you feel about the return of Cristiano Ronaldo?

It would please more than one fan, as I think Cristiano still has a lot to offer Real Madrid. But I think Real Madrid rather want to build a team on young stars.

Marcelo remains in the squad and has become captain, although his performances are not the same as 3 years ago. Do you think it’s a good thing that he stayed at Real?

There is a lot of competition on the left side of Real Madrid. I think that Mendy will be a regular there. Then there is the young Gutiérrez or even the new signing Alaba. But we’ll see, maybe Carlo can start Marcelo again, which I’d be happy to do since Marcelo is a big Madrid player.

Gareth Bale has returned to Real, although the fans were very angry with him for his disrespectful behaviour towards Real Madrid. Will you take him back if he performs well?

If he struggles on the pitch and proves that he still wants to play for Real Madrid, there should be no problem in taking him back as he is a great footballer.

Do you believe Eden Hazard will get back to his ideal form or would it be better to sell him?

Every fan wishes him to get back to his ideal form and perform his magic on the pitch. I’d give him another chance this season and then we’ll see.