The restructuring of the Champions League format has affected the distribution of income, and Real Madrid is facing a less favorable economic situation. While Barcelona has raised €54.5 million and Atletico Madrid €53 million, the white team has only earned €37.27 million, a figure below expectations for one of Europe's biggest clubs. This change is due to the modification of the TV rights distribution, which benefits clubs from markets like England and Germany.

The introduction of the "Value Pillar," which replaces the old "market pool," has been key in this income redistribution. Although Real Madrid is in third place in the UEFA coefficient, its participation in less powerful TV markets has reduced its earnings. The club has seen teams like Liverpool, with €56 million, benefit more from this new structure.

Rodrygo: "We Need to Improve"

On the sporting side, Real Madrid is also facing challenges. After their 0-3 victory over Brest, Rodrygo Goes, who scored a brace, acknowledged that the team's goal was to finish in the top eight, something they failed to achieve. "We didn't perform well in some matches, but that's in the past. We need to keep working and improving," the Brazilian said on Movistar+.

The player also emphasized the importance of the victory against Brest and highlighted the quality of the squad: "This is Real Madrid. Everyone here has the ability to play and do things well." Although aware of potential opponents like Manchester City in the preliminary round, Rodrygo mentioned that the focus is on moving forward and staying concentrated.

Real Madrid faces both an economic and sporting challenge in this edition of the Champions League. While the club remains one of the most important in Europe, changes in income distribution and setbacks in the group stage require quick adaptation. While Barcelona and Atletico benefit from the new structure, Real Madrid will need to focus on improving their performance and adapting to the new economic landscape in the competition.