It has not been the easiest of of La Liga starts for Real Madrid. The results have not been positive and they currently sit seven points behind arch-rivals Barcelona in the league table. We take a look at the reasons why Zidane's side have not kicked off the season as expected.
1. Lack of accuracy
Real Madrid are yet to win at the Santiago Bernabeu this season and in three fixtures they have only scored in three of their 67 attempts on goal. The 'bbc' have not made a contribution to the shocking 4.5% success rate, with Lucas Vazquez and Asensio the only goalscorers at home.
2. Clinging to late winners
The 'Blancos' have not managed to dominate clashes at home this season. Sluggish and predictable on the ball, Madrid have attempted to see off games by desperately pushing for a late winner, something that doesn't work every time. Betis took advantage and took all three points after a textbook counter-attack.
3. Changes and rotation system
Zidane has been heavily criticised for removing Isco and Modric in the second half against Betis, but before that there was talk of the excessive changes the French manager made to the squad. In the draw against Levante he started with Casilla, Theo, Lucas or Llorente, while Casemiro played in central defence against Valencia.
4. No Cristiano, no party
The Portuguese striker was suspended for the first four fixtures of the season and the team suffered in his absence. He tried everything upon his La Liga return, but grew frustrated as time ran out. 12 shots, only one of them on target.
5. Growing anxiety
Isco admitted that when they fail to score an early goal the team tends to get anxious. Madrid crossed 46 balls into the area against Betis and still didn't manage to score a single goal. The pressure has beaten Real Madrid who were initially favourites to lift the trophy but now have a mountain to climb.