Real Madrid’s defeat to Atletico Madrid last evening brought to the fore several of the team’s deficiencies, primarily with respect to the lack of a clear game plan.

Los Blancos were uninspiring on the night once again, and while they conveniently deflected the blame onto the refereeing, they were second-best even when there were twenty-two players on the field.

Real Madrid’s form on the road has been largely poor this season, and the defeat to Atletico Madrid marked their second defeat away from home, thus taking them six points behind Barcelona.

Heading into the international break, Jose Mourinho has a lot to think about as there are several urgent fixes required if the team are to remain competitive throughout the course of the season.

Speaking to the media in a recent interaction via GOAL , former Real Madrid player and club legend Claude Makelele explained what was lacking in the current team under Jose Mourinho and why the team were struggling.

Mourinho has a big problem to solve. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“There is no understanding between the players, or between the players and the coach. Mourinho needs to talk to them.”

He then elaborated on the fact that the team lack inspiration on the field and how the team have to do far better.