Mateo Kovačić passes statistics at Real Madrid reveal his decline as manager.

**Mateo Kovačić Passes Statistics at Real Madrid Reveal His Decline as Manager**

Mateo Kovačić, a former Real Madrid star and now coach, has seen his reputation take a hit in recent years, with statistics showing a decline in his performance as a manager. Once celebrated for his role in the club's historic 2016 Champions League victory, Kovačić's tenure as head coach has been marked by mixed results, raising questions about his ability to lead at the highest level.

Kovačić's management style, which emphasizes possession-based play and technical ability, was initially seen as a breath of fresh air at Real Madrid. His approach aimed to build on the club's existing strengths, relying on intricate passing and movement to overwhelm opponents. However, his methods have faced criticism for not always translating into tangible success, particularly in high-stakes matches.

One of the key issues has been Kovačić's struggles to adapt his philosophy to the physical and tactical demands of Spanish football. While his teams have often controlled possession, they've frequently struggled to convert chances into goals, a recurring theme during his two-season tenure. Critics argue that his focus on technical excellence has sometimes come at the expense of defensive organization and versatility, which are crucial for success in la Liga and the Champions League.

Furthermore, Kovačić's reliance on a small group of star players, such as Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, has been a double-edged sword. While these players have often been the driving force behind the team's attacking play, their inconsistent form has led to criticism that the coach has not been able to motivate or utilize his squad effectively.

Despite the challenges, Kovačić remains a popular figure within the club, and his ability to connect with fans has seen him through tough times. He has also received support from former players and insiders, who argue that managing Real Madrid is one of the most demanding jobs in football. "It's not easy to manage at Real Madrid," Kovačić himself has said. "You have to balance 22 personalities, and every decision is under the microscope."

While his time at Real Madrid hasn't been a complete success, Kovačić's legacy as a coach will ultimately be defined by more than just a few seasons. He has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to his beliefs, even as criticism mounts. Whether he will return to management in the future remains to be seen, but for now, Kovačić is focused on proving his approach can still work at one of the world's most prestigious clubs.