There is no need to look for magic formulas or referee excuses: Real Madrid loses against Barça because they run less.
Barça runs more than Real Madrid, that's why they win
Álvaro Benito explained it this clearly in a harsh critique that has made noise in Valdebebas. According to verified data, Ancelotti's team covered 9.3 mi. (15 kilometers) less than Arsenal and 5.6 mi. (9 kilometers) less than Barça in the last two decisive matches.
The statistic is devastating and, for many, explains Madrid's competitive drop in key moments. The direct comparison with Hansi Flick's Barça is especially painful: in the last Clásico, the blaugranas won in possession, in individual duels... and also in physical effort.
The most striking data is summarized by Álvaro Benito with another figure: 16-7. That is the goal difference in the last four encounters between Barça and Real Madrid.
"It's not a problem of quality, it's a matter of hunger and energy"
It could also reflect what separates both teams today in terms of intensity and physical preparation. "It's not a matter of quality, it's a question of hunger and energy," the former footballer and analyst points out.
Benito insists that Real Madrid can't afford to give physical advantages. In high-demand soccer, the talent of Bellingham, Vinícius, or Rodrygo is not enough if the effort is not matched.
"Barça has understood Flick's message. You have to run more than the opponent, and then we'll see who is better with the ball," he concludes.
The alarm has been raised in Valdebebas. This "pending subject" has cost Real Madrid important titles.
Real Madrid has dropped their arms this season
The comparison with Arsenal is even more concerning: the English team imposed an impossible pace for the blancos in the Champions League. And Barça has already won that physical battle in LaLiga.
Real Madrid historically boasts that their players never drop their arms. This season there has been a strike of dropped arms. The "until the end" has not been fulfilled this time.
There is no more secret: running more is winning more.