Derby in Jeddah: Soler Says Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid Are Cut From the Same Cloth

Derby in Jeddah: a balanced storm

Miguel Soler, the former Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid midfielder, says the Madrid derby in Jeddah comes at a strange moment for both clubs. The clash, broadcast on the Eight app, lands with both teams feeling equal momentum, making it nearly impossible to tip the scales before kickoff.

He argues that Real Madrid still hasn’t found their rhythm this season under the young coach Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard has a clear plan, Soler says, but it hasn’t fully clicked on the pitch yet and patience remains scarce.

According to Soler, Madrid’s issue isn’t a lack of talent but timing. The right formula seems just out of reach, with sporadic bursts failing to translate into sustained pressure or goals.

Atletico’s solidity and Madrid’s uncertain rhythm

On Atletico Madrid, Soler notes a defense that is arguably the league’s toughest. Yet they struggle to convert the numerous chances they create into goals, which prevents them from turning draws into wins and keeps their ambitions within reach but short of a title.

Regarding Mbappe’s absence, Soler says Madrid do not need to panic. He flags Gonzalo Garcia as a 100 percent reliable alternative, claiming he is about 70 percent closer to Mbappe’s level of readiness for such a tough match. In these conditions, the expectations are sky high and errors are costly.

He adds that with Gonzalo Garcia they would control the game better and win back possession more quickly. Mbappe is not as strong in those transitions, and a younger Gonzalo could lift the team’s work rate in this continuous battle.

Concluding, Soler states that both sides are closely matched and neither has a clear edge over the other.

If this derby ends in a 0-0 stalemate, the only thing that will be scoring is the analysts and the coffee. And if Alonso finally finds the rhythm, he will deserve a standing ovation after the stadium lights, naturally.