By: Juan Iglesias
Special to Soccer City FC
Tactical overview
Ramos favours a diamond 4-4-2 formation, although he sometimes uses 4-2-3-1; both systems require a specialist defensive midfielder. The long-term absence of Mahamadou Diarra necessitates a replacement, and Ramos has already been linked with Didier Zokora of Tottenham Hotspur, a player whom he has always highly rated, and is also eligible for the Champions League.
His heavy reliance on attacking down the flanks will also require new players, as Madrid are currently lacking in that department. Speculation here has revolved around players like Bayern's Bastian Schweinsteiger, Napoli's Marek Hamšík as well as Tottenham duo Aaron Lennon and David Bentley.
Short-term prospects
After a fairly meaningless opening game against Zenit St. Petersburg, Ramos had an immensely difficult match in Barcelona, by far the best side in the league by recent form. After that, the home match against Valencia brought the year to a close and will allow for new signings in January.
Given his short six month contract, Ramos has little time to impress. His first task will be to restore some solidity to defence, which has struggled all season, particularly on crosses and dead ball situations.
Realistically, the championship is beyond Madrid this season, but Ramos will still be expected to finish second or third if he is to be offered a longer stay. His experience in Europe may come in useful in February, as Madrid attempt to get pass the second round of the Champions League for the first time since 2004.
Impact
Although he seems to have engaged the players and transmits a genuine warmth, it remains to be seen if he can overcome the problems of defensive frailty and sagging team spirit.
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