I was hard on Varane earlier today, his composure sure is impressive given his age and the team he's playing in. He was incredibly composed throughout the match but I would like to see him command more, I really do see us building our defensive line around him as we progress - captain material if you will.
FootyGAF is harsh on Benzema I think, he fits our team so well. We dont necessarily need him scoring goals when he's able to do what he does - link up and keep possession until Bale/James or Ronaldo run in for the counter to tap it in. I actually think Benzema is unique in what he's able to do, that is to say that he's able to score goals when he finds his form (usually mid season) and feed his wings as well.
Illarramendi is growing on me. What an improvement over last season, I hope he continues doing what he has been doing - total lock down of the mid field when being subbed in. I like the idea of having a DM being able to come on at any notice and change the tide of the game. He doesn't need to be on all game, I've accepted this RM team without a starting DM and I kinda like it that way. During the more difficult matches we can start him if need be, he's got plenty of time to grow in our team.
I'm much more confident in facing Atletico and Barca with the form we're currently in, especially considering the disaster of a start we had last month. The more time our players play together the more impressive we look.
Love this team & respect Ancelotti so much. Hala Madrid