League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Match Previews

Mijatovic highlights midfield concerns for Real Madrid ahead of derby

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 8:40 AM

Last updated Sep 18, 2026

Mijatovic highlights midfield concerns for Real Madrid ahead of derby

Summary

Former Real Madrid striker Pedja Mijatovic addressed significant midfield issues for his former team ahead of their upcoming derby against Atletico Madrid on September 18. Mijatovic noted that Real Madrid lacks a true creative player to replace the influence of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. He cited Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camavinga as lacking the necessary creative spark. Despite the talents of Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler, Mijatovic feels the team misses a pure playmaker. The comments come as Madrid seeks clarity on their midfield dynamics against Atletico's intensity.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Mijatovic questions Real Madrid's midfield creativity ahead of derby.
•Real Madrid faces Atletico Madrid on September 18.
•Valverde, Tchouameni, and Camavinga are seen as lacking creativity.
•Bellingham offers attacking options, but not a pure playmaker.
•The match serves as a test of Real Madrid's current capabilities.

Latest Updates

8:40 AMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid legend points to major midfield issue before Atletico clash: ‘Neither Valverde nor Tchouameni…’

What they're saying

"
The Madrid derby is rarely a game that follows the script, and Pedja Mijatovic believes that makes Sunday’s meeting between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid particularly difficult to assess.Speaking ...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Real Madrid Atletico Madrid LaLiga Soccer