As we enter another international break, overshadowed by a string of injuries, it’s a good moment to reflect on how Real Madrid’s players have performed in September. With plenty of standout moments, we’ve ranked the top five performers for Los Blancos this past month. Without further ado, let’s dive into it.
5. Rodrygo
Many thought Rodrygo would be left behind at the beginning of the season after Mbappé’s signing was confirmed. This argument is somewhat right – but overlooks how brilliant the Brazilian has been.
Kylian Mbappé has yet to fully adapt to life in Madrid, but Rodrygo has stepped up as one of the squad’s most reliable players.
It’s frustrating to suddenly lose your spot, but Rodrygo hasn’t complained or lost focus. Instead, he scored twice (against Alavés and Espanyol) while assisting against Stuttgart in the Champions League. Although he didn’t score against Real Betis, his performances remain impressive. Rodrygo may not be the main star, but he is undeniably a crucial piece of Real Madrid’s attacking machine.
Cada día más grandes como equipo. ¡Orgulloso de ser madridista! 🤍1️⃣1️⃣ pic.twitter.com/XhgrFWhM75
— Rodrygo Goes (@RodrygoGoes) September 24, 2024
4. Luka Modrić
Despite edging closer to his 40s, Luka Modrić continues to defy the passage of time with his performances. After his partner in crime, Toni Kroos, retired, Modrić’s role was uncertain. Kroos often allowed Modrić to push up as he stayed deep and orchestrated the tempo.
Luka Modric #AtletiRealMadrid pic.twitter.com/GcP9Tb4NEa
— ًًً (@HQwallp) September 29, 2024
Life is different without Kroos, but Modrić has continued to impress on the offensive end. He remains one of the few midfielders who consistently wows the crowd with his vision and technique, which remains unmatched. His age may limit his pace, but his footballing brain more than compensates.
Modrić has the second-highest xA among Real Madrid players. At 2.19, only Vinicius Jr. does better at 2.44, and he continues to show why he’s a vital cog in Real Madrid’s engine.
3. Jude Bellingham
It might be surprising to see Bellingham on the list, given that he missed a significant portion of the month due to injury. However, his absence only highlighted how much Real Madrid relies on his work rate and leadership on the pitch.
As soon as the Englishman returned, his impact was noticeable. Bellingham brings the character and relentless off-the-ball-work few players can replicate.
Important reaction to a bad week, only way is up after the internationals! 💪🏽
Stay strong @DaniCarvajal92 we love you!🤍 pic.twitter.com/d8AZcVEu1o— Jude Bellingham (@BellinghamJude) October 5, 2024
Bellingham never stops pressing or being involved in the game. Unlike Mbappé and Vinicius, he is seen working hard off the ball until the last minute. It’s one of the main reasons he was purchased in the first place – to set an example through sheer hard work.
Although he only assisted once in September, the Englishman did not show a single “bad” performance in September 2024.
2. Dani Carvajal
Dani Carvajal might be one of Real Madrid’s most consistent full-backs, serving the club with distinction for years.
Sadly, September marked a bittersweet moment as Carvajal suffered multiple injuries, including an ACL tear during the match against Villarreal, ruling him out for the remainder of 2024.
However, this didn’t stop Real Madrid from extending his contract until 2026, despite knowing he won’t be available until 2025.
Se confirma una lesión grave de ligamento cruzado, voy a tener que pasar por quirófano y estar unos meses fuera de los terrenos de juego.
Ya estoy deseando empezar la recuperación y regresar como una bestia.
Muchas gracias a todos por vuestros mensajes, me siento muy querido. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/FdVgVhrLEC— Dani Carvajal Ramos (@DaniCarvajal92) October 6, 2024
Carvajal usually doesn’t make the headlines, but his profile is unique. A great crosser, an engine running up and down the wings, willing to give his all for the team.
He played a pivotal role throughout September, assisting in the match against Stuttgart and scoring against Espanyol, proving once again why he’s irreplaceable. Madrid lacks a full-back who compares to Carvajal, as Lucas Vázquez, while capable, doesn’t reach his level.
Carvajal’s performances were even more impressive given that Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical tweaks, particularly the 4-4-2 formation, put greater demands on his role.
Yet, he continued to show solid performances despite the team’s instability, ranking third in xG for the team.
1. Federico Valverde
Federico Valverde has remained consistent despite rarely being involved in the attack. The Uruguayan has been only mentioned by a few. Still, he is the closest Ancelotti can get to Toni Kroos in terms of controlling the tempo and bringing stability to the midfield.
📷 El 1⃣5⃣ de la 1⃣5⃣ª
🇺🇾 𝐅𝐄𝐃𝐄 𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐄 🇺🇾#UCL pic.twitter.com/1PYvPoueXb
— Liga de Campeones (@LigadeCampeones) June 6, 2024
This doesn’t mean he can replace Germán, but he has adapted to new responsibilities and delivered consistent performances.
While the rest of the midfield seems lost in an ocean of uncertainty, Valverde commands the tempo of the team. He has started to play deeper to allow Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. more freedom up front. His selflessness has helped balance the team, even when others seem uncertain.
At the same time, he is one of the most hard-working players on the team. Like Jude Bellingham, he is seen wherever a defender is needed, working hard off the ball. It’s as if he has more than two lungs, endlessly running.
Federico Valverde #UCL pic.twitter.com/sqHjdiXK80
— H (@HQpcrt) October 2, 2024
Many criticised Ancelotti for having a dysfunctional pressing scheme, but Valverde can fix all problems with his runs. Although he won’t receive an award for it, he has been Real Madrid’s best player since the beginning of the season. If there is one player who impresses despite his team failing to connect, it’s Federico Valverde.
