Johnny Cardoso puts Tottenham on alert with Real Madrid masterclass
Johnny Cardoso’s performance against Real Madrid showcased why Tottenham Hotspur must act swiftly if they want to secure the talented midfielder. With a £21 million option to sign him embedded in the deal that sent Giovani Lo Celso to Real Betis, Spurs have a golden opportunity to bring him to North London.
Despite signing a new contract with Real Betis that keeps him at the club until 2030, the release clause remains intact, leaving the final decision in Tottenham’s hands.
Every strong performance in La Liga further strengthens his case for a high-profile move, and his latest display against one of the world’s biggest clubs only adds to his growing reputation.
In Real Betis’ 2-1 victory over Real Madrid, Cardoso delivered a performance that underlined his quality and composure in midfield.
His impact on the game was immediate, as he scored the crucial equalizer by rising above the Madrid defense to head home from a corner. Beyond finding the back of the net, his all-around contribution made him one of the standout players on the pitch.
Earning an 8.3 match rating on FotMob, he demonstrated his ability to influence games at the highest level. His attacking play was particularly impressive, registering three shots, with two hitting the target, while also maintaining an xG of 0.60.
His precision in possession was evident as he completed 33 of his 38 passes, with four key passes into the final third showcasing his creative ability. Despite facing a high-pressing Madrid side, he was dispossessed only once, highlighting his composure on the ball.
Tottenham’s recruitment team will undoubtedly be monitoring his performances closely, especially given their need for midfield reinforcements. While Cardoso’s offensive contributions were eye-catching, his defensive game also deserves attention.
He made five interceptions and five recoveries, reading the game well to disrupt Madrid’s attacks. However, there are still areas where he needs improvement. His tackling was a weak point, as he attempted three but failed to win any.
Additionally, his success rate in ground duels remains a concern, winning just six out of 16, showing that his physicality and defensive tenacity could still develop further.
Despite these areas for refinement, Cardoso’s overall display reinforced why he is seen as one of La Liga’s most promising midfielders. His ability to contribute in both attack and defense makes him a well-rounded option for any top European club.
Only Isco, who managed a goal and an assist, earned a higher rating in the match, further proving that Cardoso can perform on the biggest stage. If Spurs decide to trigger his clause, they would be adding a player with a high ceiling, someone who could grow into a key figure in Ange Postecoglou’s system.
Tottenham must now evaluate whether to activate the option and bring him in this summer. With his blend of technical skill, composure, and tactical intelligence, he could be the midfield reinforcement they need.
His latest performance against Real Madrid serves as a reminder that he is ready for a bigger challenge. If Spurs hesitate, other top clubs might enter the race, and losing out on such a talent could be a costly mistake.