UEFA Champions League Analysis: Concerns for Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain

Discussion around game 4 of the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League is buzzing. Unanticipated losses for both Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have stirred concerns about these teams' future in the competition. Viktor Gyökeres' three-goal victory against Manchester City highlighted thriving competition. 

ESPN commentators Gab Marcotti, Mark Ogden and Julien Laurens weigh in on the most pressing issues the competition has presented so far. Chief among these is the alarming state of affairs at Real Madrid. The team has suffered consecutive defeats, including a startling 4-0 loss at home to Barcelona and a following loss to AC Milan. This has led to criticism and concerns over managing strategy and team dynamics. 

Factors like Toni Kroos' retirement and Dani Carvajal's season-long injury are among the challenges Real Madrid is currently facing. Also alarming are players like Jude Bellingham, whose performance seems reduced due to Kylian Mbappé, and Mbappé himself, who isn't proving to be the valuable addition that Madrid hoped for. 

Potential solutions may include changes in the January transfer window and modifications of on-field strategies. This could involve assigning more play responsibilities to Eduardo Camavinga and returning Bellingham to his original midfield position. There's a deep need for the team to regain control over their games, or they may lose their standing completely.