Real Madrid Player Ratings vs. Elche: Los Blancos Run Riot Ahead of Etihad Trip

It took some time, but Real Madrid eventually cruised to a 4–1 victory over Elche on Saturday evening to keep the good times rolling at the Bernabéu. Coming off a triumphant victory over Manchester City in the Champions League, Álvaro Arbeloa’s men overcame a sluggish start to dismantle the visitors with a masterclass in clinical finishing.

With the gap to Barcelona narrowed to just one point (ahead of their clash with Sevilla), Madridistas can breathe easy. Here is how the players performed in the dress rehearsal for Manchester.

The Defense

Thibaut Courtois: 6/10

A spectator for the vast majority of the match. He had almost nothing to do as Elche struggled to turn their 53% possession into actual threats. Could do little about the late consolation goal.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: 7/10

While the team missed his service early on, he grew into the game. His positioning helped pin Elche back once Madrid found their rhythm, and his presence alone remains a tactical nightmare for opposition wingers.

Antonio Rüdiger: 9/10 (MOTM)

The German powerhouse didn’t just defend; he ignited the Bernabéu. His 39th-minute volley was a thing of pure technical beauty—a strike any world-class striker would be proud of. He was a rock at the back and provided the spark when the game was “stuck in the mud.”

Dean Huijsen: 8/10

The youngster continues to look like a veteran in white. A towering header just past the hour mark effectively killed the game. His composure on the ball is becoming a vital asset for Arbeloa.

Ferland Mendy: 7/10

Standard Mendy. Solid, dependable, and physically dominant. He ensured Elche had zero joy down his flank, allowing the attackers to focus on breaking the low block.

The Midfield

Federico Valverde: 8.5/10

The engine room is purring. His thunderous free kick led to the opener, and he followed it up with a trademark curling strike from the edge of the box. His “blistering form” is exactly what Madrid needs heading into the Etihad.

Arda Güler: 8/10

While he started on the bench to manage his minutes, his impact was seismic. His goal—an outrageous strike from inside his own half—was a Puskás contender that sent the Bernabéu into a frenzy. Pure magic.

Brahim Díaz: 7/10

Brahim was the most industrious player during the difficult opening 35 minutes. His movement forced the error that led to Rüdiger’s opener. He is constantly finding pockets of space that others miss.

The Attack

Rodrygo: 6.5/10

A relatively quiet night by his lofty standards. He linked play well but struggled to find his own shooting boots against Elche’s deep defensive line.

Vinícius Júnior: 7/10

Kept the Elche backline occupied with his constant directness. While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his gravity opened up the space for Valverde and Rüdiger to exploit.

The Manager

Álvaro Arbeloa: 8/10

He stayed patient when the team looked flat early on. His rotations worked perfectly, ensuring the stars are fresh for the Champions League while still securing three vital points in the title race.

Match Statistics

The Takeaway: Madrid were clinical. Despite a lower xG of 1.25, they converted four of their six shots on target. That ruthlessness will be the deciding factor in Manchester.