LaLiga 2018/19: 3 Reasons why Mariano could be great for Real Madrid

#1 Short-term solution till a "Galactico" arrives

Mariano(in white) in action against Inter Milan

Lopetegui threw in some young players into the middle during pre-season. While a couple of players impressed, he is unwilling to directly include them in the first XI. However, Mariano, with an exceptional season behind him, fits the bill perfectly.

The reigning European champions stuck to their strict transfer policy this summer and it is why they refrained from moving for a big money signing. They got Mariano instead, without breaking the bank. At £30 million, the striker looks value for money and would fix most of Madrid's problems, at least, for a short while.

With club President Florentino Perez determined to land either Neymar or Kylian Mbappe in next summer's transfer window, Madrid are ostensibly on the right path.