The article argues that Real Madrid's recent setbacks aren't solely due to a lack of running distance, but rather the absence of a player like Toni Kroos. Kroos's strategic playmaking and game control made up for a potentially lower running distance.
The article uses the match against Arsenal as an example, acknowledging Arsenal's superior running distance but emphasizing that Real Madrid's previous Champions League victories with Kroos did not depend on similar high running stats.
The author criticizes Real Madrid's failure to find a suitable replacement for Kroos, comparing it to using a high-performance sports car for everyday tasks.
Ultimately, the piece underscores that successful football requires strategic play and a player like Kroos who can control the game, rather than simply relying on high running distances.