Zidane begins with the five sidelined players
Real Madrid fans were treated to a Zinedine Zidane inspired performance at the Santiago Bernabéu against Celta Vigo which was badly needed after recent events at the club. The French coach started his second spell on the bench by using the five players who had been sidelined by Solari and the side delivered a reasonable performance without dazzling. Although the team played well in spells, the important consideration was the sense of optimism that the French coach's return has transmitted throughout the club. Keylor, Marcelo, Isco, Asensio and Bale, all delivered solid displays with rooms for improvement from the final two. Keylor produced an exemplary stop on the one occasion when the Madrid goal was threatened as Marcelo and Isco were reliable with the latter bagging the first goal of the evening.
Loyalty
Why did Zidane opt to play these five? I'd offer a series of reasons for their selection. It's no secret that Keylor is highly regarded by the French coach. He's his number one keeper and Zidane even went on the record in a press conference outlining his resistance to the club signing Kepa when the possibility arose. Florentino on the other hand is not so fond of the Costa Rican and his desire to lure, first De Gea, then Kepa before finally signing Courtois was no secret. Zidane trusts Keylor and despite Courtois delivering creditable performances in the Madrid shirt, Zidane's first choice stopper appears to be Navas and he's made it clear to Florentino that he wants no external interference when it comes to team selection.
Strategy
The playing of the 'other four' I would suggest are tied in with his forward planning. Active players are worth so much more in the modern market and for Madrid to make big summer signings, it's inevitable that players will need to depart to finance these new acquisitions. I'd suggest that if Eden Hazard does arrive, then it could see an end to Isco's time at the Bernabeu. Gareth Bale's time also seems to have expired and I do hope that Asensio rediscovers his best and stays. The same applies to Marcelo despite the strong rumours linking the Brazilian to a move to Serie A outfit Juventus. By the way, Marcelo did have a tendency during the game against Celta to stray forward and look vulnerable when it came to his defensive responsibilities. Zidane also gave playing time to Ceballos, Valverde and Mariano and his task today was made that bit easier against a Celta side who no more than a blunt instrument without striker Iago Aspas.