TIG Post

Tag: Real Madrid

  • Player celebrations must not be dragged into racism debate – Rosenior responds to Mourinho on Vini case

    Player celebrations must not be dragged into racism debate – Rosenior responds to Mourinho on Vini case

    Head coach of Benfica, Jose Mourinho, has invited several backlash upon himself after he remarked on the alleged racial abuse of Real Madrid’s prodigy, Vinicius Jr., by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during his side’s match on Tuesday, February 17.

    Speaking during a post-match interview, the “chosen one” indicated that he had been told different stories by both Vini and his player, Prestianni. However, he insists that he remains neutral and wouldn’t take sides.

    In addition to expressing his belief that Vinicius had been disrespectful with his goal celebration, he pointed to the club’s legendary striker Eusebio as proof that Benfica is not a racist club.

    Asked if he felt Vinicius incited the crowd, Mourinho said: “Yes. I believe so.

    “It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal. Unfortunately, he was not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate respectfully.”

    He continued, “I told [Vinicius], when you score a goal like that, you just celebrate and walk back. When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club [Eusebio] was black.

    However, reacting to his remarks, Chelsea FC manager Liam Rosenior rejected Jose Mourinho’s stance during a press conference, saying, “I have been racially abused myself. I know people who have, and what people need to understand is
 it is the worst thing.”

    “If any player, any coach or any manager is found guilty of racism, they shouldn’t be in the game. It’s as simple as that.”

    “Regardless of how a player celebrates, race should never come into it. I don’t know the context of the situation in which Jose [Mourinho] said what he said, so I won’t make a judgment on it. I won’t make judgement until I get the facts”, Rosenior said.

    About Vinicius racism case

    It was a win for Real Madrid in their game against Benfica in the Champions League; however, the game was marred with allegations of racism, chaos and tempers everywhere.

    The game was halted for 10 minutes during the second half when Vinicius Jnr scored a goal in the 50th minute and was quickly seen reporting an alleged racist abuse to the referee Francois Letexier.

    According to reports, Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni confronted him, covering his mouth with his jersey while speaking, and Vinicius insist that the player called him a monkey.

    This was after Vini Jr celebrated in front of Benfica fans at the Estadio da Luz and was shown a yellow card, while appearing to be targeted by objects thrown from the Portuguese crowd while celebrating.

    The forward then spoke to Letexier and had words with several Benfica players. Other Madrid players were involved as the two sides clashed. Vincius Jr’s Madrid team-mate Kylian Mbappe also appeared upset during the stoppage. Madrid staff, including head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, spoke to both players.

    During the stoppage, Vinicius Jr ran back over to Letexier, with the French official then appearing to invoke FIFA’s ‘No Racism Gesture’ by crossing his arms in an X shape above his head, which prompted the referee to engage the captains of both sides: Madrid’s Federico Valverde and Benfica’s Nicolas Otamendi while Vinicius Jr went and sat back down on the Madrid bench.

    The game resumed after a 10-minute delay, with Vinicius Jr then booed by the home fans when he touched the ball. Not very long after Later in the half, Valverde also appeared to mimic a monkey gesture to Letexier, apparently indicating racial abuse.

    Vinicius Jr has been a subject in many cases of racial abuse over the years during his career, especially in Spain’s La Liga, and most recently in European competition.

    During an El ClĂĄsico against Barcelona at Camp Nou in October 2021, he was subjected to racist chants. Barely 3 months after the incident, a similar abuse happened in Real Madrid’s match against Athletic Bilbao. Fast forward, another attack came from some AtlĂ©tico Madrid fans in May 2022, who directed racist chants towards him outside the stadium during a derby. That September, in a game against Mallorca, monkey chants followed one of his goals.

    It went into another year, 2023, when Valladolid fans targeted him during warm‑ups. The most infamous incident came on May 21, 2023, at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium, where sustained racist chanting led Vinícius to confront fans directly. This episode drew global outrage and even inspired Brazil to pass the “Vinícius Jr. Law” against racism in sports.

    By mid‑2024, ESPN had counted 16 separate racist abuse incidents targeting him in Spain alone. The Valencia case remains the most high‑profile, but the Benfica incident shows the problem persists beyond Spain, underscoring the ongoing challenge of racism in football.

    FIFA’s guidance on racism during matches says: “Following its unanimous approval at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, on 17 May 2024, a global crossed arms gesture to signal racist abuse is now part of football protocol at FIFA tournaments. The No Racism Gesture is designed to empower players, team officials and referees to take a stand against racism.

    “By crossing their hands at the wrists, players can signal directly to the referee that they are being targeted by racist abuse, prompting the referee to start the three-step procedure.”

    Meanwhile, in May last year, FIFA announced that it had put forward a five-pillar plan aimed at addressing racist abuse in football.

    The global governing body stated that it had engaged in an extensive consultation process with current and former players who are committed to instigating change.

    One of the plan’s key suggestions involves implementing a standard crossed-hands gesture for players to signal racist incidents during matches.

    The first pillar of the proposal intends to make racism a specific offence which is included in all member associations’ disciplinary codes and has its own “specific and severe sanctions, including match forfeits”.

    FIFA said it will “pause, suspend and abandon games in cases of racism”.

    The crossed-hands gesture will be used by referees to signal an in-game procedure in which matches are paused twice, and warnings are given, with the game to then be abandoned in the event of further racism.

    In pillar three – ‘criminal charges’ – Fifa called for racism to be recognised as a criminal offence in every country, and said it would push for severe sanctions in the countries where it is already an offence.

    Fifa also said it would promote education initiatives with schools and governments to “provide a future free of racism”, while an anti-racism panel made up of former players will be set up to review the progress of the proposal.

  • He misinterpreted what I said – Prestianni denies racially abusing Vini Jnr

    He misinterpreted what I said – Prestianni denies racially abusing Vini Jnr

     Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni has denied racially abusing Real Madrid prodigy Vinicius Jr during his team’s Champions League clash with the Spanish club in Lisbon on Tuesday, February 18.

    The game was halted for 10 minutes during the second half when Vinicius Jnr scored a goal in the 50th minute and was quickly seen reporting an alleged racist abuse to the referee Francois Letexier.

    According to reports, Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni confronted him, covering his mouth with his jersey while speaking, and Vinicius insist that the player called him a monkey.

    This was after Vini Jr celebrated in front of Benfica fans at the Estadio da Luz and was shown a yellow card, while appearing to be targeted by objects thrown from the Portuguese crowd while celebrating.

    Responding to the allegations of racism, the Benfica midfielder has denied calling Vini a monkey. He said, 

    “I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults at VinĂ­cius JĂșnior; he unfortunately misinterpreted what was said. I have never been racist towards anyone. I was never racist with anyone, and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players”

    Despite his denial, Real Madrid’s Mbappe insists that he heard Estadio call Vini a monkey about 5 times, asking that he be banned from the Champions League.

    Before Estadio’s response, Vini Jr posted on his Instagram, calling racists cowards.

    His post read, “Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are.

    “But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them. Nothing that happened today is new in my life or in my team’s life.

    “I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don’t understand why. On the other hand, it was just a poorly executed protocol that served no purpose.”

    In a post on their official X account, alongside a video of the alleged incident, Benfica defended Prestianni.

    “As the images demonstrate, given the distance, the Real Madrid players could not have heard what they claim to have heard,” was the Portuguese club’s message.

    Mourinho’s remarks on incident

    Benfica manager Jose Mourinho was captured having an interaction with Vinicius Jnr after he walked off the pitch following the interaction with Prestianni.

    Speaking during a post-match interview, he indicated that he had been told different stories by both Vini and his player, Prestianni. However, he insists that he remains neutral and wouldn’t take sides.

    In addition to expressing his belief that Vinicius had been disrespectful with his goal celebration, he pointed to the club’s legendary striker Eusebio as proof that Benfica is not a racist club.

    Asked if he felt Vinicius incited the crowd, Mourinho said: “Yes. I believe so.

    “It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal. Unfortunately, he was not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate respectfully.”

    He continued, “I told [Vinicius], when you score a goal like that, you just celebrate and walk back. When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club [Eusebio] was black.

    “This club, the last thing that it is, is racist. If in his mind there was something in relation to that, this is Benfica.

    “They [Vinicius and Prestianni] told me different things. But I don’t believe in one or another. I want to be independent.”

    Vinicius Jr has been a subject in many cases of racial abuse over the years during his career, especially in Spain’s La Liga, and most recently in European competition.

    During an El ClĂĄsico against Barcelona at Camp Nou in October 2021, he was subjected to racist chants. Barely 3 months after the incident, a similar abuse happened in Real Madrid’s match against Athletic Bilbao. Fast forward, another attack came from some AtlĂ©tico Madrid fans in May 2022, who directed racist chants towards him outside the stadium during a derby. That September, in a game against Mallorca, monkey chants followed one of his goals.

    It went into another year, 2023, when Valladolid fans targeted him during warm‑ups. The most infamous incident came on May 21, 2023, at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium, where sustained racist chanting led Vinícius to confront fans directly. This episode drew global outrage and even inspired Brazil to pass the “Vinícius Jr. Law” against racism in sports.

    By mid‑2024, ESPN had counted 16 separate racist abuse incidents targeting him in Spain alone. The Valencia case remains the most high‑profile, but the Benfica incident shows the problem persists beyond Spain, underscoring the ongoing challenge of racism in football.

    FIFA’s guidance on racism during matches says: “Following its unanimous approval at the 74th FIFA Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, on 17 May 2024, a global crossed arms gesture to signal racist abuse is now part of football protocol at FIFA tournaments. The No Racism Gesture is designed to empower players, team officials and referees to take a stand against racism.

    “By crossing their hands at the wrists, players can signal directly to the referee that they are being targeted by racist abuse, prompting the referee to start the three-step procedure.”

    UEFA has its own racism reporting initiative that referees can implement.

    Both UEFA and FIFA have a three-step protocol for stopping matches after alleged incidents, which can end in matches being abandoned. The Athletic has contacted UEFA for comment.

    Meanwhile, in May last year, FIFA announced that it had put forward a five-pillar plan aimed at addressing racist abuse in football.

    The global governing body stated that it had engaged in an extensive consultation process with current and former players who are committed to instigating change.

    One of the plan’s key suggestions involves implementing a standard crossed-hands gesture for players to signal racist incidents during matches.

    The first pillar of the proposal intends to make racism a specific offence which is included in all member associations’ disciplinary codes and has its own “specific and severe sanctions, including match forfeits”.

    FIFA said it will “pause, suspend and abandon games in cases of racism”.

    The crossed-hands gesture will be used by referees to signal an in-game procedure in which matches are paused twice, and warnings are given, with the game to then be abandoned in the event of further racism.

    In pillar three – ‘criminal charges’ – Fifa called for racism to be recognised as a criminal offence in every country, and said it would push for severe sanctions in the countries where it is already an offence.

    Fifa also said it would promote education initiatives with schools and governments to “provide a future free of racism”, while an anti-racism panel made up of former players will be set up to review the progress of the proposal.

  • Jude Bellingham sidelined for four weeks with hamstring injury

    Jude Bellingham sidelined for four weeks with hamstring injury

    Real Madrid has announced a month’s sideline for their English midfielder, Jude Bellingham. In a statement shared by the club’s management on Sunday, February 1.

    They made the announcement immediately after their La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago BernabĂ©u. 

    Real Madrid detailed that the club’s medical team has confirmed a month’s sideline for Jude after they had diagnosed him with a muscle injury in his left leg.

    “Following tests carried out today on our player Jude Bellingham by Real Madrid’s medical services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg,” said Los Blancos in a statement, without specifying the length of his expected absence.

    The 22-year-old left Real Madrid’s game against Rayo Vallecano on February 1, in the 10th minute, after pulling up with pain in his left thigh. He was substituted immediately and left the pitch in tears.

    As well as the play-off games against Jose Mourinho’s Benfica on February 17 and 25, Bellingham is likely to miss league matches against Valencia, Real Sociedad and Osasuna.

    Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa said a potential Bellingham absence would be a “big absence” but that he has an “extraordinary squad” to help fill in for the midfielder.

    This sideline comes just about 4 months after he returned from injury. He had to undergo a shoulder surgery following months of  after months of managing the injury.

    The surgery had become necessary due to a recurrent dislocation of his left shoulder.

    Jude also expressed his Real Madrid’s 3–1 victory over Pachuca on Sunday, June 22, 2025. The match was part of the FIFA Club World Cup Group H and took place at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina

    This was confirmed by the Spanish club in an official statement yesterday, Wednesday, July 16.

    “Our player Jude Bellingham has successfully undergone surgery for a recurrent dislocation of his left shoulder. The operation was performed by Drs. Manuel Leyes and Andrew Wallace, under the supervision of the Real Madrid Medical Services,” the statement noted.

    The 22-year-old is expected to miss the whole of Real’s pre-season and at least the first six weeks of the campaign, which would include England’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia in September.

    Bellingham has struggled with the problem since 2023, when he dislocated his shoulder in a game against Rayo Vallecano.

    Real said he will now undergo a period of rehabilitation before returning to training.

    The Spanish club, under new manager Xabi Alonso, start their La Liga season at home to Osasuna on 19 August.

    Bellingham has worn strapping on his shoulder, but told reporters in June he was “tired of playing with the sling”.

    Real scheduled his surgery for after the Club World Cup in the United States, where they were beaten in the semi-finals by Paris St-Germain last week.

    Bellingham joined Real from Borussia Dortmund for ÂŁ115m two years ago and won the La Liga title and Champions League in his first season, scoring 23 goals in 43 appearances.

    He scored 15 goals in 58 games last season, with Real losing the league title to Barcelona and knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals by Arsenal.

    As a result, he failed to make a full recovery. Bellingham, who started in all of Madrid’s Club World Cup games, explained his decision to undergo an operation following the 3-1 win over Pachuca last month.

    “I’ll have the surgery done after the tournament,” he said. “I’m sick of playing with the brace, especially in the heat. It will be nice to have my old shoulder back, so I’m looking forward to it.”

    Bellingham, who joined Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2023, helped the Spanish giants win the LaLiga and Champions League double in his first season at the club.

    He scored 15 goals and delivered 15 assists in 58 games across all competitions for Los Blancos last season.

    Madrid, under new coach Xabi Alonso, begin LaLiga at home to Osasuna on Aug. 19.

    Bellingham is expected to return in early October but will miss up to eight league games and the start of the Champions League group phase.

  • Treat Vini well, he will give his best – Mbappe to Madrid fans after jeers

    Treat Vini well, he will give his best – Mbappe to Madrid fans after jeers

    Kylian Mbappé has urged football fans, particularly Real Madrid supporters, to treat Brazilian star Vinicius Jr. kindly, noting that he performs best when given proper support.

    Addressing the consistent jeers at Brazilian winger Vini Jr., who has been singled out across Real’s last three home games, Kylian noted that the team’s current form should not be blamed on a single player but on the entire team, stressing the need to stop targeting him for the team’s struggles.

    He stressed that, “If he’s at his best, he’s one of the best in the world. It’s not Vini’s fault. It’s the fault of the entire squad. I’m not Vini. If you want, I’ll find him. I don’t have to give advice. I’m nobody to give advice. My only responsibility is to take care of him, to protect him
 When he’s happy, it’s different. We have to protect him better. So he’s not alone against everyone. He’s not alone at Real Madrid. We’re all with him. If he’s at his best, he’s one of the best in the world.”

    The Frenchman added on Vinicius getting emotional amid taunts from the crowd: “Vini, like you, like her, like everyone. He’s a human being. He’s a fantastic player. He’s an incredible guy, I’m lucky to know him, and I’m very fond of him.”

    Kylian defends Jude Belligham and Vini

    Real Madrid fans subjected Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to brutal boos during their La Liga match against Levante, which was hosted on Saturday, 17 January 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.

    Per reports, the jeering was targeted at these individuals as it’s believed they became rivals with the past coach, Xabi Alonso. These jeers reportedly contributed to the manager’s dismissal, many believe.

    However, Mbappe, who was spared the jeers, rose to defend his teammates, highlighting the need for them to be treated equally, noting that the team’s current form isn’t to be blamed on just a player if fans are dissatisfied. He, however, acknowledged the fans discontent about the team’s form and the players performance

    He told reporters ahead of a Champions League reunion with his former employers at Monaco on Tuesday, with that contest also set to take place in the hostile surroundings of the Bernabeu: “The whistling
 I think I understand it. I get it. Before I was a footballer, I was a young man, and when I wasn’t happy, I’d talk badly about the players, and if I was at the stadium, I’d whistle. I understand it because we’re not doing things right.

    That’s all I have to say to the fans. Let them boo the whole team. We have to accept it, it’s our job. We know that. But we can’t single out a few and say it’s their fault. It’s everyone’s fault. At Real Madrid, there are moments like this, and we have to change that. What I didn’t like was that if they’re going to whistle, it should be the whole squad. You shouldn’t single out one player. We’re doing poorly as a team, and we have the character to change this on the pitch. I don’t see the Real Madrid fans as being against us. They’re angry, and I’m sure they’ll come back to support us.”

    Mbappe speaks on relationship with Vini Jr

    Kylian MbappĂ© has said he can’t picture Real Madrid without his teammate VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, even though some people think it might be hard for both of them to play together in the same attack.

    When Mbappé moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Madrid last summer, rumours began that Vinícius might leave the club. There was even reported interest from Saudi Arabia. However, ESPN has said that Vinícius is now more likely to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.

    Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta on Sunday. It was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” MbappĂ© said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini, I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

  • Target all of us, not only Vini Jr” – MbappĂ© defends teammates after boos from Madrid fans

    Target all of us, not only Vini Jr” – MbappĂ© defends teammates after boos from Madrid fans

    Real Madrid fans subjected Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to brutal boos during their La Liga match against Levante, which was hosted on Saturday, 17 January 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.

    Per reports, the jeering was targeted at these individuals as it’s believed they became rivals with the past coach, Xabi Alonso. These jeers reportedly contributed to the manager’s dismissal, many believe.

    However, Mbappe, who was spared the jeers, rose to defend his teammates, highlighting the need for them to be treated equally, noting that the team’s current form isn’t to be blamed on just a player if fans are dissatisfied. He, however, acknowledged the fans discontent about the team’s form and the players performance

    He told reporters ahead of a Champions League reunion with his former employers at Monaco on Tuesday – with that contest also set to take place in the hostile surroundings of the Bernabeu: “The whistling
 I think I understand it. I get it. Before I was a footballer, I was a young man, and when I wasn’t happy, I’d talk badly about the players, and if I was at the stadium, I’d whistle. I understand it because we’re not doing things right.

    That’s all I have to say to the fans. Let them boo the whole team. We have to accept it, it’s our job. We know that. But we can’t single out a few and say it’s their fault. It’s everyone’s fault. At Real Madrid, there are moments like this, and we have to change that. What I didn’t like was that if they’re going to whistle, it should be the whole squad. You shouldn’t single out one player. We’re doing poorly as a team, and we have the character to change this on the pitch. I don’t see the Real Madrid fans as being against us. They’re angry, and I’m sure they’ll come back to support us.”

    Vini seem to be getting more ‘heat’

    Addressing the consistent jeers at Brazilian winger, Vini Jr., who has been singled out across Real’s last three home games, Kylian out said: “Of course, it’s not Vini’s fault. It’s the fault of the entire squad

    “I’m not Vini. If you want, I’ll find him. I don’t have to give advice. I’m nobody to give advice. My only responsibility is to take care of him, to protect him
 When he’s happy, it’s different.”

    The Frenchman added on Vinicius getting emotional amid taunts from the crowd: “Vini, like you, like her, like everyone. He’s a human being. He’s a fantastic player. He’s an incredible guy, I’m lucky to know him, and I’m very fond of him. We have to protect him better. So he’s not alone against everyone. He’s not alone at Real Madrid. We’re all with him. If he’s at his best, he’s one of the best in the world.”

    Kylian MbappĂ© has said he can’t picture Real Madrid without his teammate VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, even though some people think it might be hard for both of them to play together in the same attack.

    When Mbappé moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Madrid last summer, rumours began that Vinícius might leave the club. There was even reported interest from Saudi Arabia. However, ESPN has said that Vinícius is now more likely to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.

    Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta on Sunday. It was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” MbappĂ© said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini, I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

  • “I don’t want to be somewhere else” – JĂŒrgen Klopp responds to links to Real Madrid

    “I don’t want to be somewhere else” – JĂŒrgen Klopp responds to links to Real Madrid

    Former Liverpool coach, JĂŒrgen Klopp, has shot down swelling speculations linking him to Santiago Bernabeu. He was alleged to be the preferred candidate to replace Real Madrid’s immediate past manager Xabi Alonso, who the club parted ways with after their loss to Barcelona during the last El ClĂĄsico.

    Setting the record straight, Klopp has ruled himself out for the vacant position, explicitly noting that he has no intention of returning to the dugout now. The 58-year-old, who has been at Red Bull for about a year, addressing the rumours from RB Leipzig’s headquarters, stated that Alonso’s exit “had nothing to do with me and hasn’t triggered anything in me either”.

    He reaffirmed his ability to manage aclub again, however, shot down expectations of his return to football coaching; commending his current employer’s defining role, which has brought him ‘complete peace’.

    “I know I can coach a football team, but that doesn’t mean I have to do it until my last day,” he explained. “I wanted to do something different. Red Bull allowed me to find a role which we have been defining together, step by step. I’m in a place as a person where I’m completely at peace with where I am. I don’t want to be somewhere else,” Klopp bluntly stated.

    Since his appointment in early 2025, seven months after his emotional departure from Anfield, there has been widespread confusion regarding what Klopp’s new position actually entails. Overseeing a vast network that includes RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Bragantino, and RB Omiya Ardija, his remit is broad but, he insists, clearly defined.

    “That’s the last title I ever want to have,” Klopp asserted. “It’s an advisory role, but with power. But I’m not a person who shoots from far away. So that means I listen and rely a lot on the people at the clubs. I calm things down in some moments, and make decisions in others.”

    His influence is already being felt in recruitment meetings, where his charisma remains a potent weapon. Marcel Schaefer, Leipzig’s sporting director, described Klopp as having a “god-given talent to capture people in just a few minutes”. This was evident in the acquisition of winger Johan Bakayoko from PSV, who was swayed not by a hard sell, but by a conversation with Klopp about footballing philosophy and personal development.

    Klopp’s comments come just a weekafter Real Madrid announced that their contract with Xabi had ended. The 44-year-old Spaniard signed a three-year contract with the Madridistas; however, his stint was truncated after a Supercopa de España final defeat to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia.

    During his eight-month spell, Alonso oversaw 34 matches, winning 24, drawing 4, and losing 6, a win rate of just over 70 percent. His side scored 41 goals in La Liga while conceding only 17, giving Madrid the best defensive record in Spain at the time. Despite a strong start, including a notable El ClĂĄsico victory, the team faltered in key fixtures.

    The breaking point came with a 3–2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, which compounded a run of inconsistent results in Europe and the league. Though Alonso’s Madrid remained second in La Liga with 45 points from 19 games, the lack of momentum and tactical clarity ultimately cost him his position.

    Xabi replaced Madrid’s legendary coach, Carlo Ancelotti

    In May last year, Real Madrid officially confirmed the departure of Carlo Ancelotti by the season’s end. The Italian coach was announced to bid farewell to fans and the club after their last game of the season against Real Sociedad on Saturday, May 24.

    In a statement from the club shared on Friday, the Spanish giants expressed their gratitude to the coach, hailing him as one of the greatest the club has had in the over-a-century-old club.

    “Real Madrid C. F. and Carlo Ancelotti have reached an agreement to end his time as Real Madrid coach. Our club would like to express its gratitude and affection to one of the great legends of Real Madrid and world football.

    “Carlo Ancelotti has led our team through one of the most successful periods in our 123 years of existence and has become the coach with the most titles in our history: Three European Cups, three Club World Cups, three European Super Cups, two leagues, two Copa del Reys, and two Spanish Super Cups. In total, 15 titles during the six seasons in which he has belonged to our club,” parts of the statement read.

    The club’s president, Florentino Perez, added, “Carlo Ancelotti will forever be part of the great Madridista family.

    “We feel incredibly honoured to have had the chance to enjoy a coach who has helped us achieve so much success but who has also embodied our club’s values in such exemplary fashion.”

    Reacting to the club’s official announcement, Ancelotti thanked all members of the club, highlighting the hard work and memories created together at Bernabeu, labeling it as now a part of “football history.

    He, however, acknowledged that though a new journey begins, his “bond with Real Madrid is eternal. See you soon, Madridistas.”

    He wrote in a social media post, “Today we part ways again. Once again I take in my heart every moment lived in this wonderful second spell as Real Madrid coach

    “They have been unforgettable years, an incredible journey full of emotions, titles, and, above all, the pride of representing this badge.

    “Thanks to the president, Florentino Perez, to the club, to my players, to my staff, and, above all, to this unique fan base that has always made me feel like one of them.

    “What we have achieved together will remain forever in the memory of Real Madrid fans, not only for the triumphs, but for the way we achieved them. The magical nights of the Bernabeu are now football history.

    “Now a new adventure begins, but my bond with Real Madrid is eternal. See you soon, Madridistas.”

  • Kylian says Ronaldo gives him advice, it has helped him

    Kylian says Ronaldo gives him advice, it has helped him

     Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has never hidden his admiration for former Real Madrid player and Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

    In his recent interview, the French-born player expressed his excitement about his relationship with his idol, stating that the 40-year-old Portuguese sometimes advises him.  

    Speaking in an interview with Movistar broadcast on Sunday, October 12, Kylian stated that “Cristiano has always been a role model for me. I’m lucky enough to talk to him; he gives me advice, and he’s helped me”

    He continued that Ronaldo remains the Spanish club’s “number one”. According to him, although Ronaldo has parted ways with Real Madrid, he remains a big example to the current crop of players in the dressing room.

    “I think in Madrid, he’s still the number one. He’s the reference point for Real Madrid players, who have done a lot”, he said. 

    Fans at Santiago BernabĂ©u still dream of their hero, Cristiano, Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer in La Liga, with 311 goals in 292 matches between 2009 and 2018. He scored 450 goals in nine seasons at Madrid, winning 16 trophies, including four Champions Leagues.

    “The fans still dream about Cristiano,” Mbappe stated.

    Despite his admiration for his childhood idol, Mbappe added, “…but I want to follow my own path.” In June 2024, when Kylian joined Real Madrid, he shared a picture of himself and Ronaldo with a caption,” A dream come true. I’m thrilled and proud to join my dream club, Real Madrid.”

    Mbappé scored 44 times in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2024-25, and already has 14 goals to his name in this campaign.

    Despite MbappĂ©’s goalscoring, Madrid ended last season without winning a major trophy. They’re currently top of LaLiga after eight games, two points clear of Barcelona, despite suffering a heavy 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid last month.

    Reacting to his side’s defeat, the former PSG forward admitted Atletico’s dominance in terms of duels, which makes it difficult to win such a game.

    “They [Atletico] came to play a derby, and us… We did too, but without putting any intensity into the duels, the crosses,” MbappĂ© said on Sunday. “They won all the duels. It’s hard to win a game like that.”

    The World is currently preparing for football’s greatest tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted in three different countries, i.e., the USA, Canada and Mexico.

    In France’s qualifiers against Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10, Kylian MbappĂ© notched one out of the three goals, but was substituted later on with an ankle knock, having suffered a similar injury with Madrid last weekend.

    France are among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, but Mbappé admitted he sees Spain as a serious contender.

    “For me, [Spain] are the best team in Europe right now,” MbappĂ©- who won the 2018 World Cup, and was a runner-up in 2022 — said. “But the World Cup is different.”

    Following his move from PSG to Real Madrid, rumours began to swirl and spread about his relationship with Brazilian-born forward Vinicius Jr, but he explained that they are now much better this year s they have gotten to know each other well.

    “Two famous players in the same team — that sells newspapers,” MbappĂ© said, when asked about VinĂ­cius. “But the truth is, I have a very good relationship with Vinicius. It’s much better this year, because we know each other better,” he said.

    This is not the first time Kylian has addressed rumours of an estranged relationship with his teammate Vinicius. About six months ago, Kylian Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta, which was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    Many questions were asked, particularly by fans and pundits, about whether two high-profile forwards could coexist without ego clashes in the same attack. Other rumours suggested that Vinícius was making plans to exit Real Madrid over limited play time, hinting at rotation concerns under coach Xabi Alonso, with Vinícius occasionally benched while Mbappé thrived.

    However, Mbappe shot down these claims, explaining that he couldn’t imagine the team without Vini Jr.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” MbappĂ© said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini. I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us, and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season, we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

    Meanwhile, Cristiano has set a new record as the first footballer to be listed as a billionaire according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

    Bloomberg said the Portugal prodigy’s net worth an estimated $US1.4bn.

    The billoanire journey began when the former Man Utd striker joined the Arabian side, Al-Nassr.

    The Portugal captain joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club during an interview with Piers Morgan.

    The 40-year-old striker’s financial ascent comes after he signed a new contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth more than $400m.

    In June, he confirmed an extension of contract with Al-Nassr in a ÂŁ172m-per-year deal.

    In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr, saying, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”

    The club also confirmed his stay on X in a post which reads, ” Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”

    Bloomberg said that Ronaldo earned more than $550m in salary between 2002 and 2023, supplemented by a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18m annually, and lucrative endorsements with Armani, Castrol and others that added more than $175m to his fortune.

    Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 had already made him the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m ($US358m), plus bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi Arabian club.

    Ronaldo’s billionaire status places him among a rare group of athletes that includes basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo remains Real Madrid’s “number one” – Mbappe

    Cristiano Ronaldo remains Real Madrid’s “number one” – Mbappe

    French-born footballer and Real Madrid striker, Kylian MbappĂ©, insists that Cristiano Ronaldo remains the Spanish club’s “number one,” and also his all-time role model.

    He intends to learn from him, adding that the Al-Nassr captain occasionally offers him advice.

    Kylian Mbappé made these remarks in an interview broadcast by Movistar TV on Sunday, October 12. According to him, while Ronaldo has parted ways with Real Madrid, he remains a big example to the current crop of players in the dressing room.

    “Cristiano has always been a role model for me,” MbappĂ© told Movistar in an interview broadcast on Sunday. “I’m lucky enough to talk to him; he gives me advice, and he’s helped me. I think in Madrid, he’s still the number one. He’s the reference point for Real Madrid players, who have done a lot. 

    Fans at Santiago BernabĂ©u still dream of their hero, Cristiano, Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer in La Liga, with 311 goals in 292 matches between 2009 and 2018. He scored 450 goals in nine seasons at Madrid, winning 16 trophies, including four Champions Leagues.

    “The fans still dream about Cristiano,” Mbappe stated.

    Despite his admiration for his childhood idol, Mbappe added, “…but I want to follow my own path.”

    Mbappé scored 44 times in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2024-25, and already has 14 goals to his name in this campaign.

    Despite MbappĂ©’s goalscoring, Madrid ended last season without winning a major trophy. They’re currently top of LaLiga after eight games, two points clear of Barcelona, despite suffering a heavy 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid last month.

    Reacting to his side’s defeat, the former PSG forward admitted Atletico’s dominance in terms of duels, which makes it difficult to win such a game.

    “They [Atletico] came to play a derby, and us… We did too, but without putting any intensity into the duels, the crosses,” MbappĂ© said on Sunday. “They won all the duels. It’s hard to win a game like that.”

    The World is currently preparing for football’s greatest tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted in three different countries, i.e., the USA, Canada and Mexico.

    In France’s qualifiers against Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10, Kylian MbappĂ© notched one out of the three goals, but was substituted later on with an ankle knock, having suffered a similar injury with Madrid last weekend.

    France are among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, but Mbappé admitted he sees Spain as a serious contender.

    “For me, [Spain] are the best team in Europe right now,” MbappĂ©- who won the 2018 World Cup, and was a runner-up in 2022 — said. “But the World Cup is different.”

    Following his move from PSG to Real Madrid, rumours began to swirl and spread about his relationship with Brazilian-born forward Vinicius Jr, but he explained that they are now much better this year s they have gotten to know each other well.

    “Two famous players in the same team — that sells newspapers,” MbappĂ© said, when asked about VinĂ­cius. “But the truth is, I have a very good relationship with Vinicius. It’s much better this year, because we know each other better,” he said.

    This is not the first time Kylian has addressed rumours of an estranged relationship with his teammate Vinicius. About six months ago, Kylian Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta, which was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    Many questions were asked, particularly by fans and pundits, about whether two high-profile forwards could coexist without ego clashes in the same attack. Other rumours suggested that Vinícius was making plans to exit Real Madrid over limited play time, hinting at rotation concerns under coach Xabi Alonso, with Vinícius occasionally benched while Mbappé thrived.

    However, Mbappe shot down these claims, explaining that he couldn’t imagine the team without Vini Jr.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” MbappĂ© said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini. I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us, and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season, we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

    Meanwhile, Cristiano has set a new record as the first footballer to be listed as a billionaire according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

    Bloomberg said the Portugal prodigy’s net worth an estimated $US1.4bn.

    The billoanire journey began when the former Man Utd striker joined the Arabian side, Al-Nassr.

    The Portugal captain joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club during an interview with Piers Morgan.

    The 40-year-old striker’s financial ascent comes after he signed a new contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth more than $400m.

    In June, he confirmed an extension of contract with Al-Nassr in a ÂŁ172m-per-year deal.

    In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr, saying, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”

    The club also confirmed his stay on X in a post which reads, ” Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”

    Bloomberg said that Ronaldo earned more than $550m in salary between 2002 and 2023, supplemented by a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18m annually, and lucrative endorsements with Armani, Castrol and others that added more than $175m to his fortune.

    Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 had already made him the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m ($US358m), plus bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi Arabian club.

    Ronaldo’s billionaire status places him among a rare group of athletes that includes basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.

  • I will be Brazil’s coach from May 26 – Carlo Ancelotti

    I will be Brazil’s coach from May 26 – Carlo Ancelotti

    Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his exit from the Spanish club.

    He made this known at a news conference held ahead of Real Madrid’s match against Mallorca on May 14th.

    The confirmation comes a few days after the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) issued a statement announcing his appointment by the end of the season.

    Ancelotti said, “If I didn’t have the press conference today, it would be fantastic. There are things I can’t explain right now because I’m in Madrid and I want to respect the shirt.”

    “From 26 May onwards, I’ll be Brazil’s coach. It’s a very important challenge, but I want to finish the final stretch of this fantastic adventure here well”.

    When asked if he has ever faced any issues with Real Madrid that led him to consider leaving, he clarified that he has never encountered and will never encounter any problems with the club, adding that the club may need fresh inspiration and drive.

    He said that he cannot be the club’s coach for life.

    “I never had problems with Real and never will have problems with Real. It’s a club that lives dearly in my heart, but everything in life has a date to end.

    I couldn’t be Madrid’s coach for the rest of my life. It comes to an end for many reasons. The club may need a new impetus. I’m not making a big deal out of it,” he said.

    He also clarified that the club would issue a statement on his departure at their own time, emphasising “There is no problem whatsoever and they’ll do it when they deem it appropriate.”

    Ancelotti ended by expressing his gratitude to the club. “A thousand thanks to this club. And we’ll carry on. I’ll always be a Madrid fan. It’s the end of an era. Spectacular. I never thought I’d coach Madrid for six years, and now it’s happened.”

    Reflecting on his time at Madrid, he said, “I always kept in mind that one day it ends. I’ve had a great time, and I think everyone has, but there comes a time when it ends. Football is like life; something begins and ends.”

    “I’ve had a great time. We’ve won a lot, and it will be a memory for life. The day I arrived [for the second time], if they told me I’d win 11 titles in four years, I’d sign it with my blood. It’s been an unforgettable time.”

    During two spells with Real Madrid, Ancelotti has won 15 trophies, including three Champions League titles.

    Last season, he led them to a Champions League and La Liga double, but is set to finish this campaign without silverware.

    Real Madrid exited the Champions League in the quarter-finals, lost the final of the Copa del Rey to Barcelona, and sit seven points behind Hansi Flick’s side in the league with three matches remaining.

  • Jude Bellingham: Real Madrid ‘lucky’ to concede just three vs. Arsenal

    Jude Bellingham: Real Madrid ‘lucky’ to concede just three vs. Arsenal

    Jude Bellingham has admitted that Real Madrid were fortunate to lose by only three goals in their 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal on Tuesday.

    Arsenal took control of the game in the second half at the Emirates Stadium, with Declan Rice scoring two brilliant free kicks — the first direct free kicks of his entire career — and Mikel Merino adding a third goal late in the match.

    The result puts the Gunners in a strong position going into the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu next week.

    Although Real Madrid are known for their dramatic Champions League comebacks, they have never managed to overturn a 3-0 first leg loss in the competition’s history.

    “We were nowhere near [our level], and Arsenal were really good,” Bellingham told CBS. “They could have had way more. We were lucky to get away with three. There is a second leg, that’s the thing we’re holding onto. We’re going to need something unbelievably special, something crazy.”

    Real Madrid, the 15-time Champions League winners, were shocked by Arsenal’s three quick goals in just 17 minutes during the second half of their quarterfinal first-leg match.

    The first half had ended 0-0, with Mbappé missing a clear chance against Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, and Thibaut Courtois making a good double save before halftime.

    Speaking after the match, Jude Bellingham said, “You never know,” when asked if a comeback was possible. He admitted the team’s performance was far from good but added, “I can’t come out and say we’re gonna give up, that’s not in the nature of the club, the mentality they instill at this club. [It’s] 90 minutes at home to pull something out of the bag.”

    The Spanish media had strong reactions the next day. Marca’s front page described the loss as a “humiliation” but also said, “nothing is impossible for Madrid.”

    Another paper, Diario AS, stated that the team would be “obliged to perform another miracle” in the second leg.

    Real Madrid has a history of pulling off dramatic comebacks, like during their 2022 run to the final when they came from behind to beat PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester City.

    Although the team is currently second in La Liga and has made it to the Copa del Rey final, they have struggled in key games this season, including losing both El ClĂĄsico matches to Barcelona.

    “It’s similar kind of themes that have happened to us all season when we’ve dropped points,” Bellingham told TNT. “It’s happened again tonight on a larger scale.

    We’re going to need something special to turn it around, but special things can happen in football. And if there’s one place where it can, it’s at our house.

    “They had a good game plan. They did a really good job at analysing how we would try and press them, they made a little change which helped them progress the ball forward more and that gave them more chance to have more waves of attacks and take more risks especially when the ball went wide. Credit to them, they were brilliant.

    Even besides the free kicks, which are rare to score, they had a load more chances they could have punished us with.”

    Madrid next play Alavés in LaLiga on Sunday, before hosting Arsenal at the Bernabéu next Wednesday.

  • ‘Captain’! Arsenal fans gush over Partey after stunning display against Madrid

    ‘Captain’! Arsenal fans gush over Partey after stunning display against Madrid

    Thomas Partey delivered an outstanding performance as Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal at the Emirates Stadium.

    The Black Stars midfielder controlled the game from the middle of the pitch, helping the Gunners secure a huge advantage.

    Declan Rice scored two stunning goals from free kicks, while Mikel Merino added a third to complete the win.

    Partey, who used to play for Atlético Madrid, was heavily involved throughout the match.

    He had 77 touches, completed 61 of his 66 passes, and showed great control and awareness.

    He also made seven passes into the final third, recovered the ball six times, won four out of seven ground duels, completed both of his long passes, and made one interception.

    Arsenal will now turn their focus to the second leg, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, where another strong performance will be needed to reach the semifinals.

    See some reactions below:

  • Video: See Partey’s thrilling display in Arsenal-Real Madrid clash

    Video: See Partey’s thrilling display in Arsenal-Real Madrid clash

    Thomas Partey delivered an outstanding performance as Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal at the Emirates Stadium.

    The Black Stars midfielder controlled the game from the middle of the pitch, helping the Gunners secure a huge advantage.

    Declan Rice scored two stunning goals from free kicks, while Mikel Merino added a third to complete the win.

    Partey, who used to play for Atlético Madrid, was heavily involved throughout the match.

    He had 77 touches, completed 61 of his 66 passes, and showed great control and awareness.

    He also made seven passes into the final third, recovered the ball six times, won four out of seven ground duels, completed both of his long passes, and made one interception.

    Arsenal will now turn their focus to the second leg, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, where another strong performance will be needed to reach the semifinals.

  • I can’t picture Real Madrid without VinĂ­ Jr. – Mbappe reacts to tension with teammate

    I can’t picture Real Madrid without VinĂ­ Jr. – Mbappe reacts to tension with teammate

    Kylian MbappĂ© has said he can’t picture Real Madrid without his teammate VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, even though some people think it might be hard for both of them to play together in the same attack.

    When Mbappé moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Madrid last summer, rumours began that Vinícius might leave the club. There was even reported interest from Saudi Arabia. However, ESPN has said that Vinícius is now more likely to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.

    Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta on Sunday. It was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” MbappĂ© said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini, I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

    After a slow start, MbappĂ© has now scored 22 goals in LaLiga — 33 in all competitions — to help Madrid stay in contention for the league title, reach the Copa del Rey final, and the Champions League quarterfinals.
    Ballon d’Or runner-up VinĂ­cius has had a more inconsistent season, but has still scored 11 league goals, and 20 overall, with seven coming in the Champions League.

    MbappĂ© said he’d never doubted joining Real Madrid — a club he watched as a boy, following idols Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo — despite the possibility of earning more money elsewhere.

    “I have no problems talking about money, but there are more important things. I wanted to play for Real Madrid,” MbappĂ© said. “Money is important, but for me the most important thing is being happy on the pitch and in life.”

    MbappĂ© later clarified in a post on X that his comments had “No connection with PSG” and he was simply discussing his options after leaving the Ligue 1 club.

    “The question was about the next step and the choice, for example, of Saudi Arabia or a club like Real,” MbappĂ© posted.

    In the interview, MbappĂ© also discussed his mother, Fayza Lamari, saying her “tough image” isn’t warranted.

    “In the world of football, people don’t want there to be a lot of women,” MbappĂ© said. “She isn’t my agent, she’s my mother. She only wants the best for me.”

    The France international also discussed his revelation that he’d hit “rock bottom” after struggling earlier in the season, culminating in a missed penalty against Athletic Club on Dec. 4.

    “I know people and teammates who’ve had depression. I wasn’t playing well, but it wasn’t for mental health reasons,” MbappĂ© said. “I didn’t like it when people said that, because it’s a serious subject 
 In Bilbao I hit rock bottom in a sporting sense, not a mental one.”

    Madrid face Arsenal in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg on Tuesday, in a demanding month which also includes a Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26.

  • Obsessed” Tebas should focus on important matters, not unnecessary criticisms -Ancelotti to LaLiga pres

    Obsessed” Tebas should focus on important matters, not unnecessary criticisms -Ancelotti to LaLiga pres

    Carlo Ancelotti has strongly criticized LaLiga president Javier Tebas, accusing him of being “obsessed” with Real Madrid and showing a lack of respect for coaches.

    The Real Madrid boss voiced his frustration over fixture congestion, vowing that his team would not take the field if given less than 72 hours to recover between matches. His remarks followed Madrid’s dissatisfaction with the scheduling of their 2-1 victory over Villarreal on March 15.

    Tebas, when asked about the controversy during a conference on Thursday, appeared to take a swipe at Ancelotti’s squad management. He noted that since COVID-19, teams are allowed five substitutions per game, yet some managers only make three late in the match and then complain about player fatigue.

    “I knew [Tebas] was obsessed with Real Madrid, but I didn’t know he wanted to be a coach,” Ancelotti responded, when asked about the comments in a news conference on Friday. “[Tebas] should focus more on his own things. He lacked a bit of respect, to Real Madrid and to coaches.”

    The scheduling row is the latest in a series of clashes between Madrid and the league on a number of issues.

    Speaking ahead of Madrid’s game with LeganĂ©s at the Santiago BernabĂ©u, Ancelotti sought to add some nuance to his threat.

    “I must add something: we won’t play [with under 72 hours’ rest] without justification,” he said. “It might be that nobody can change [the time], there might not be enough time, for many reasons.
    “But for [the] Villarreal [game], it could have been changed. Villarreal and the television companies wanted to. Only LaLiga didn’t. There was no justifiable reason.”

    Ancelotti categorically denied that the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) had contacted him in recent days over coaching the national team, following Brazil 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

    The Italian has previously been strongly linked with the position, but has a contract at the Bernabéu until June 2026.

    “My contract speaks for itself,” Ancelotti said. “I don’t have anything to add. I have a lot of affection for the Brazil team, its players and fans. But I have a contract at Real Madrid.”

    On Thursday, UEFA announced that it was investigating four Madrid players — Kylian MbappĂ©, VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, Antonio RĂŒdiger and Dani Ceballos — over their behaviour following their penalty shootout victory over AtlĂ©tico Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 on March 12.

    Real play Arsenal in the quarterfinals next month.

  • UEFA launches probe into alleged misconduct of Mbappe, Rudiger, Vini, others

    UEFA launches probe into alleged misconduct of Mbappe, Rudiger, Vini, others

    UEFA has launched an investigation into four Real Madrid players, including Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, over allegations of “indecent conduct” during their Champions League last-16 victory against Atletico Madrid.

    The probe also targets defender Antonio Rudiger and midfielder Dani Ceballos, with all four players potentially facing disciplinary action ahead of Madrid’s quarter-final first-leg encounter against Arsenal on April 8.

    “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of indecent conduct by Real Madrid CF players,” said the European football governing body in a statement.

    According to reports from the Spanish media, UEFA is closely examining the behavior of Real Madrid players during their post-match celebrations.

    Both UEFA and Real Madrid have yet to respond to AFP’s request for comment on the matter.

    Madrid, the record 15-time Champions League winners and defending titleholders, secured their victory over Atletico Madrid in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Metropolitano Stadium on March 12, following a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.

    However, the match ended in controversy when Atletico’s Julian Alvarez had his penalty ruled out due to an alleged double touch, a decision that sparked heated debate

    Kylian Mbappe faced disciplinary scrutiny during a Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille on September 13, 2020. He was investigated for unsportsmanlike conduct after provoking opponents following a goal.

    Vinicius Junior has been under disciplinary probes in the past, particularly in connection with incidents of racial abuse during matches. A notable instance occurred on May 21, 2023, in a La Liga game between Real Madrid and Valencia, where he confronted fans and criticized the league’s handling of racism.

  • Real Madrid’s Endrick admits he fears being left out of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad

    Real Madrid’s Endrick admits he fears being left out of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad

    Endrick has given a strong clue about his future at Real Madrid, admitting he is worried about not making Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

    The young forward has faced challenges in his first season at Madrid, struggling to get regular playing time under coach Carlo Ancelotti. So far in the 2024-25 campaign, he has scored six goals in 28 appearances across all competitions but has yet to start a La Liga match.

    His limited minutes even led Brazil coach Dorival Junior to leave him out of the initial squad for the ongoing World Cup qualifiers. However, he was later called up after Neymar withdrew due to injury.

    Now, the 18-year-old has spoken about his situation at Madrid and his concerns about missing out on Brazil’s World Cup squad in 2026.

    Speaking in an interview with Brazil legend Romario, he said: “To be honest, what goes through my head a lot is that I’m afraid of not being at the 2026 World Cup. I’m worried
 because it’s my dream to be at World Cup. It’s even difficult to speak about that. I want go help Brazil to win the sixth World Cup.”

    Following their 2-1 victory against Colombia last week, the five-time world champions are now preparing for a big showdown against their rivals, Argentina, in an important 2026 World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

  • Huge payday for Trent Alexander-Arnold? Check out the ‘juicy’ Real Madrid contract offer

    Huge payday for Trent Alexander-Arnold? Check out the ‘juicy’ Real Madrid contract offer

    Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set for a lucrative move to Real Madrid, with details of his potential contract now emerging.

    The Liverpool right-back appears ready to leave his boyhood club as his contract nears its end, with no new deal expected at Anfield.

    Spanish giants Real Madrid have been keeping a close eye on his situation and reportedly have a contract offer ready. According to Sky Sports Switzerland, the 26-year-old has already assured Madrid that he will make the move to Spain.

    Once at Santiago Bernabeu, Alexander-Arnold will supposedly agree a deal that is worth €15 million (£13m/$16m) a year – which represents a sizeable increase on his current contract at Liverpool.

    Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to receive a generous financial package at Real Madrid, including performance-based bonuses and a signing bonus similar to a regular transfer fee.

    Liverpool had tried to negotiate a new deal with their academy graduate, but with his departure looking likely, they are now searching for a replacement.

    According to Sky Sports, the Reds have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as their top target. Manager Arne Slot is keen to bring his fellow Dutchman to Anfield and is taking a personal approach by staying in regular contact with Frimpong’s representatives.

    He also plans to meet with them in person in the coming weeks.

  • Vini Junior has a day off – Ancelotti says as Real Madrid prep for Villarreal clash

    Vini Junior has a day off – Ancelotti says as Real Madrid prep for Villarreal clash

    Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr is feeling tired but will still be available for their LaLiga match against Villarreal on Saturday, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti.

    The Brazilian was given an extra day to rest and did not join team training on Friday. Instead, he stayed inside the club’s facilities, as reported by local media.

    This comes after Real Madrid’s intense Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, which went into extra time before they secured a 4-2 win on penalties.

    “We have given him an extra day’s rest because he is still very tired,” Ancelotti told a press conference.

    “Tomorrow he will be available and at full strength to help us. He doesn’t have any problems, just a bit of tiredness.”

    The Italian coach backed the 24-year-old, who missed a late second-half penalty against Atletico.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LpqMx2jUo8

    “For us, for me, Vinicius is an indisputable player,” Ancelotti added. “He may have better or worse games, moments. But I don’t dispute that.

    “Even if sometimes he doesn’t play well, even if he fails, he has been so important for this club that I can’t argue with that.”

    Real Madrid has faced some challenges in their bid to defend the LaLiga title. They are currently in second place, having won only two of their last six matches.

    The team is tied on 57 points with league leaders Barcelona, who have an extra game to play. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid sits in third place, just one point behind. Barcelona will face Atletico on Sunday, while Villarreal, who are in fifth place, continue to push for a higher spot in the standings.

    “We have to make an extra effort (on Saturday),” Ancelotti said.

    “We can’t feel fresh, because we haven’t had the time needed. But we can put other things on the pitch: quality, a good attitude, play an intelligent game
 There is not only one way to win. There are many, defending well, for example.”

  • Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr eyes new contract amid Saudi Pro League interest

    Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr eyes new contract amid Saudi Pro League interest

    Vinicius Jr has expressed his deep satisfaction at Real Madrid, stating that playing for the club is a dream come true. The 24-year-old Brazilian forward remains committed to extending his stay with the reigning Champions League holders.

    With two years remaining on his current contract, Vinicius has been linked with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League. However, he has made it clear that his priority is to continue his career at Madrid by signing a new deal.

    “I am very calm because my contract lasts until 2027 and I hope to renew my contract as soon as possible because I am happy here,” he said.

    “I am living the dream of playing with the best players in the world, the best coach, the best president, the best fans. Here everybody loves me so much. I couldn’t be in a better place.”

    Vinicius left Flamengo to join Real in 2018 and has won three La Liga titles and the Champions League twice.

    Real continue the defence of their European crown on Tuesday, when they host neighbours Atletico in the first leg of their last-16 tie, and Vinicius goes into the game with 102 goals from 300 appearances for the club.

    “My child dream was to make it here,” he added.

    “Now I have managed to make it to here, I am writing my story.
    “I have won but I can still win much more and make it into the history of the club. That is very complicated because many good players have been here, legends, and I want to be just like them.”

  • Ancelotti fumes at Tebas, says he “talks about Real Madrid too much”

    Ancelotti fumes at Tebas, says he “talks about Real Madrid too much”

    Carlo Ancelotti pushed back against Javier Tebas on Tuesday, criticizing the LaLiga president for frequently commenting on Real Madrid. He also accused Tebas of being disrespectful after the latter claimed the club was “crying” over refereeing decisions.

    Madrid has expressed frustration over several recent officiating calls, particularly after dropping points against Espanyol, Atlético Madrid, and Osasuna in successive league matches. In response, the club filed a formal complaint with the Spanish football federation (RFEF) this month, alleging referee misconduct and match manipulation.

    At a talk with the news agency Europa Press on Monday, Tebas said he was “starting to feel ashamed” of being a Real Madrid fan, saying the club was “crying” about officials and creating a “conspiracy theory” which was “an insult to the rest of the clubs.”

    “Tebas talks about Real Madrid too much,” Ancelotti said in a news conference on Tuesday, ahead of Madrid’s Copa del Rey semifinal first leg at Real Sociedad.

    “Since I’ve been here, it’s happened often. It’s a lack of respect to millions of Madrid fans to talk like that. The president of LaLiga should focus more on solving the problems that Spanish football has.”


    Madrid have frequently highlighted officials’ decisions on their TV channel, before and after matches. President Florentino PĂ©rez has called for reform of the refereeing system, and RFEF president Rafael Louzan has even claimed that PĂ©rez told him he’d like to see English referees in Spain.

    “I don’t know what ‘shame’ [Tebas] feels,” Ancelotti said. “I think all Madridistas are proud to be fans of this club.”

    Also on Tuesday, Tebas hit back at Ancelotti’s comments saying on X: “Carlo, it’s a shame that they’re using you for this, given the experience you have.”

    Tebas aimed his comment directly at Ancelotti, saying: “Carlo, everyone knows that institutions are reflected in what their leaders do and say. And in football, even more so. So, when I said that ‘Real Madrid has become a club that cries a lot,’ I was obviously referring to the fact that it is its leaders who are constructing this victim and conspiratorial narrative: ‘an adulterated competition,’ ‘the bias of all referees is anti-Madrid,’ ‘they are all against Real Madrid’


    “Strange, isn’t it? Because that speech, besides being disrespectful to the competition, is also disrespectful to the clubs that beat you on the field, either because they were better or simply because they were luckier. That is disrespectful to millions of fans.

    “I have been a Madrid fan since I was a child, and this whole narrative that the management is promoting goes against the values ​​that we have always known.”

  • La Liga president slams Real Madrid of being a ‘crying club’ amid refereeing complaints

    La Liga president slams Real Madrid of being a ‘crying club’ amid refereeing complaints

    La Liga president Javier Tebas has sharply criticized Real Madrid for their recent complaints about refereeing decisions, labeling the club as ‘a crying club’.

    Over the past season, Real Madrid has made it a habit to put pressure on referees before matches. Their official channel, Real Madrid TV, frequently highlights decisions that they believe unfairly go against them, allegedly aimed at influencing upcoming matches. However, their complaints have reached a peak in the last month.

    Earlier in February, Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Osasuna. During the match, Jude Bellingham was sent off by referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero after using offensive language towards the official. Subsequently, Real Madrid accused La Liga referees of bias and claimed there was a conspiracy against them.

    Tebas responded by calling out Real Madrid’s behavior and specifically criticized club president Florentino Perez, referring to his leadership style as ‘oligarchic’.

    In an interview with The Objective, Tebas said (as quoted by Diario AS): “We have had a lot of refereeing controversy in recent weeks. From Real Madrid TV, Real Madrid puts the controversy and writes a false story and questioning all football. It is a verbally aggressive and manipulated story. I know a lot of Madridistas who don’t agree with Real Madrid, who are a crying club – they’re crying all day. They cry for the weekend, they will cry for the following weekend and it is all the fault of a conspiracy.

    “It makes an excessive one of the VAR. From the ‘OK Jose Luis’, Florentino called the president of the Federation, Rubiales, and since then it has been used excessively. We want to change the refereeing system. If you do a survey of other clubs they will say that Real Madrid and Barcelona are the most benefited, but they don’t have television to say it. RMTV is the only media that is with this story.

    “Florentino’s football deceives people. It represents oligarch football, it represents only football for the rich. He wants to decide everything, the money that is distributed. My Madridismo is hibernating, but from time to time I get blown up. A part of Real Madrid is having the mistake of venerating everything that Florentino does, of saying that everything is fine. Real Madrid should have an independent opinion. I’m happy when Real Madrid wins. I was very happy when Real Madrid won the Champions League. I’m a Madridista, not a Florentinista.”

  • Owner of Caen FC MbappĂ© visits his struggling club on day off after hat rick

    Owner of Caen FC Mbappé visits his struggling club on day off after hat rick

    Kylian Mbappé, as the owner of Stade Malherbe Caen, made an unexpected visit to the struggling Ligue 2 club on Thursday.

    The Real Madrid star, who became Caen’s majority shareholder last summer, used his day off in Spain to travel and support the team. With the club facing possible relegation, he met with the coach and players to boost their confidence.

    “I want to show my support,” MbappĂ© told reporters. “To be in contact with everyone and for them to know that they can count on me, and especially in the situation we’re in.

    “If I’m here it’s because I believe in the project. I wanted to come earlier but it was impossible. I told them [the team] that I was with them and that they had to believe. And I saw a group that is not resigned and wants to change the results.”

    MbappĂ©’s visit came just two days after the club’s decision to sack manager Bruno Baltazar on Tuesday and appoint Michel Der Zakarian as his replacement.

    Baltazar, who had only taken over the job in December following the sacking of Caen great Nicolas Seube, failed to turn results around.

    Caen are winless since Nov. 2 and Monday’s 1-0 defeat at Annecy FC was their ninth straight league loss.
    Mbappé discovered early on how challenging ownership is with Caen fans upset over the dismissal of Seube.

    In the team’s first game of 2025, Caen fans displayed a banner aimed at the Real Madrid star that read ‘MbappĂ© SMC is not your toy!’

    Despite the French team’s dismal form, MbappĂ©, who scored a hat trick in Madrid’s 3-1 win against Manchester City in Wednesday’s Champions League game, is not giving up hope.

    “I think that with the quality of the team and the support of the fans, things can change and I hope that this is a turning point,” he said on Thursday.

    “In football, we have seen that nothing is impossible. There is a lack of confidence, but I think that a good run of results can change the team’s spiral.

    “I understand the frustration of the people, as I have told them personally, because I have not been through this before. It is normal to be angry, but the people support, fill the stadium and our mission is to give our best.”

  • Jude Bellingham receives a two-match ban after red card against Osasuna

    Jude Bellingham receives a two-match ban after red card against Osasuna

    Jude Bellingham has received a two-match ban for his comments towards the referee during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Saturday.

    The English player was given a straight red card in the first half after making remarks to referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero. The referee reported that Bellingham said “f*ck you” to him, but Bellingham denied it.

    The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has now punished Bellingham with a two-game suspension for his “disrespectful attitude” towards Munuera Montero.

    Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti backed up his player’s claim that the red card was merely down to a misunderstanding and the Spanish side provided video evidence to support the argument.

    Madrid initially asked for the card to be overturned, Cadena SER reports, but the Disciplinary Committee opted for a significantly shorter ban than they could have handed out.

    “Taking into account the different factual circumstances invoked, it is appropriate to impose the sanction provided for in said precept in its minimum degree, of two games,” the ruling said.

  • Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. now owns Portuguese second-tier club after for ÂŁ6.7m purchase

    Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. now owns Portuguese second-tier club after for ÂŁ6.7m purchase

    Vinicius Junior has bought Portuguese second-division football club FC Alverca for ÂŁ6.7 million. The club aims to reach the top league.

    UOL reports that the Brazilian footballer led a group of investors from Brazil and Spain, acquiring about 70-80% of Alverca.

    Alverca, near Lisbon, is currently second in Liga Portugal 2 and hopes to join top clubs like Sporting CP, Porto, and Benfica next season.

    This purchase follows Alverca’s recent win in Liga 3, a significant recovery after the club’s financial troubles led to its closure in 2005.

    Alverca confirmed the purchase with a statement, “Ricardo Vicintin has sold his qualified stake in the public limited company to a group of investors. More information on the matter will be communicated in due course.”

    The club has been in the top league before, playing there for three out of five seasons between 1998 and 2003. Their stadium, Complexo Desportivo, holds 7,705 people.

    Vinicius Jr. will play an important role for Real Madrid against Manchester City on Wednesday, February 19, as they try to reach the Champions League last 16.

  • Don’t argue, disrespect the referee – Hanci Flick advices Barca squad after Bellingham red card

    Don’t argue, disrespect the referee – Hanci Flick advices Barca squad after Bellingham red card

    Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, has urged his players to show respect to referees and avoid arguing with them. His comments come after Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham was sent off for confronting the referee during their 1-1 draw against Osasuna.

    The referee, Jose Luis Munuera Montero, said that Bellingham said “f* you,” which led to his immediate dismissal. However, Bellingham insisted that he actually said “f* off” and that it was directed at himself out of frustration, not the referee.

    After the match, Bellingham insisted he did not insult the referee and called the situation a misunderstanding. The following day, he apologized on social media for putting his team in a difficult situation.

    He wrote: “Enough said about the misunderstanding, just wanted to apologize again for leaving my teammates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding. See you at home on Wednesday.”

    Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s home game against Rayo Vallecano on Monday, Flick emphasized that he had reminded his players to stay calm and avoid conflicts with match officials.

    “It’s disrespect. For me, it’s like that. But I don’t have to decide (the punishments),” he told a press conference on Sunday.

    “I don’t like this behaviour and I said this today to my players because it’s very important. It is not good for the team when you do this and get the red card. It’s a weakness and we don’t like that.

    “We have one person on the pitch who is allowed to discuss with the referee and that is the captain. We have to accept that.”

    Third-placed Barca can return to the top of LaLiga with a win over Rayo later on Monday.

  • Pep ‘afraid’ Man City have little chance of winning playoff round against Real Madrid

    Pep ‘afraid’ Man City have little chance of winning playoff round against Real Madrid

    Pep Guardiola admits that Manchester City have a very slim chance—just “1%”—of staying in the Champions League as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the second leg of their playoff round on Wednesday in Spain.

    Real Madrid, who won their 16th Champions League title by beating Borussia Dortmund in last season’s final, secured a 3-2 victory at the Etihad last week. They scored twice in the final minutes, overturning a 2-1 lead that had been given to City by Erling Haaland’s two goals.

    Manchester City now face a tough challenge, as they have only won once at the BernabĂ©u—a 2-1 win in the round of 16 back in February 2020. To stay in the competition, they must find a way to defeat Carlo Ancelotti’s side on their home turf.

    Guardiola, who has coached Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the past, admits the task ahead is extremely difficult. However, he remains hopeful that City still have a slight chance of making it to the next round.

    “The margin to win in BernabĂ©u in that position [3-2 down], everybody knows that if you ask before the game, the percentage to go through, I don’t know, we arrive at 1%, or I don’t know what,” Guardiola said.

    “It will be minimal, but as much as you have a chance, we will try, that’s for sure, you know? “The chance is minor because the result was not good — five minutes ago, with 2-1, it would be different.

    “But with 2-3, the chance is less, but as much as you have a chance, we are going to take it, and we’ll see what happens.”
    City have endured their worst season since Guardiola took charge in 2016 during this campaign, losing 12 games in all competitions and surrendering their title hopes by mid-season.

    And the City coach admits that, while this season has been hugely disappointing, Saturday’s 4-0 home win against Newcastle could provide a springboard for a recovery going into final weeks of the campaign.

    “Listen, there are many, many games that we didn’t play the level we play, and at the end, we lost it,” Guardiola said.

    “And that was not just the three points, it’s how it is affecting our minds for the next game. “It happened a lot of times. This season, the reality is that we have been miles, miles away.

  • Bellingham sees red in Osasuna clash

    Bellingham sees red in Osasuna clash

    Jude Bellingham was sent off as Real Madrid missed the chance to move four points clear at the top of La Liga in a frustrating draw against Osasuna.

    The England midfielder, who scored Real’s late winner at Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday, was shown a straight red in the 39th minute for foul and abusive language towards referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero.

    Bellingham’s only previous dismissal for Real came after the final whistle in a 2-2 draw at Valencia in March 2024, when he received a second yellow for complaining to the referee.

    France forward Kylian Mbappe had given Real the lead at Estadio El Sadar, latching on to Federico Valverde’s inch-perfect cross to fire home his 17th league goal of the season.

    But Osasuna were given a lifeline in the 58th minute after Eduardo Camavinga was adjudged to have fouled Ante Budimir in the box – and the home striker scored from the spot.

    As the second half wore on, Real continued to push for a winner, but Mbappe wasted an opportunity to find Vinicius Jr in acres of space in the Osasuna box.

    The Brazil forward carved out a chance to fire Real back in front with 15 minutes remaining, dribbling past two defenders in the area before his effort was headed off the line by Alejandro Catena.

    Vinicius also dug out a back-post cross with 10 minutes remaining but Luka Modric could not direct his side-foot volley on target.

    Atletico Madrid, who are two points behind Real, will go top if they win against Celta Vigo later on Saturday.

    Hansi Flick’s Barcelona will also leapfrog Real on goal difference if they beat Rayo Vallecano on Monday night.

  • That was a huge motivation – Real Madrid’s Vini Jr on Man City Ballon d’Or banner

    That was a huge motivation – Real Madrid’s Vini Jr on Man City Ballon d’Or banner

    VinĂ­cius JĂșnior revealed that a banner displayed by Manchester City fans motivated him to deliver an outstanding performance in Real Madrid’s 3-2 comeback victory in the Champions League on Tuesday.

    Before the match at the Etihad, City supporters unveiled a banner featuring midfielder Rodri holding the Ballon d’Or trophy, which he won ahead of VinĂ­cius last year. The banner also included the phrase “Stop Crying Your Heart Out,” referencing a song by Oasis.

    Vinícius responded in style, playing a key role in Madrid’s win. He was named UEFA’s Player of the Match after assisting Jude Bellingham’s dramatic 92nd-minute winner with a perfectly placed lob over City’s goalkeeper, Ederson.

    “I saw [the banner],” VinĂ­cius told Movistar. “But when opposition fans do things, it always gives me more strength to play a great game, and here I did that. 
 [City] know our history, and everything we’ve done in this competition.”

    Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony in October last year, in protest of VinĂ­cius missing out on the trophy.

    “I don’t know if Vini saw it,” coach Carlo Ancelotti said in his postmatch news conference. “But having seen the game, if he saw it, it was a big motivation for him.”

    Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said he was unaware of the banner but admitted that VinĂ­cius is “an extraordinary player.”

    Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team has a “slight advantage” in the tie after their 3-2 victory, with the second leg set to take place next week at the BernabĂ©u.

    “This is the way,” Ancelotti said. “We’ve been talking about it for a long time. The season really starts now, and despite all our difficulties, we’ve got a very good result.

    “The four at the back [RaĂșl Asencio, AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni, Federico Valverde and Ferland Mendy] had never played together or even trained together, and they had a spectacular game. 
 From this emergency, we got something good.”

    Ancelotti said he expected two more senior defenders –– Antonio RĂŒdiger and David Alaba — to be available for the second leg.

  • “It feels like a ClĂĄsico now” – Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid-Man City clash

    “It feels like a ClĂĄsico now” – Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid-Man City clash

    Carlo Ancelotti has likened the rivalry between Manchester City and Real Madrid to a ClĂĄsico, as the two European giants prepare to clash once again in the Champions League. This marks their fourth consecutive meeting in the competition, with the Italian coach predicting that the winner will have a strong chance of advancing deep into the tournament.

    Unlike their previous encounters in the semifinals and quarterfinals—where Madrid triumphed in 2022 and 2024, while City prevailed in 2023—this season’s showdown takes place in the knockout playoff round after both teams had underwhelming group stage performances.

    Heading into the first leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, City are struggling domestically, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Madrid top LaLiga but are dealing with a defensive injury crisis, missing key players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder MilitĂŁo, Antonio RĂŒdiger, and David Alaba.

    With both teams facing their own challenges, this high-stakes encounter promises another thrilling chapter in their growing Champions League rivalry.

    “It feels like a ClĂĄsico now, because we’ve played them now for many years,” Ancelotti said in his pre-match news conference in Manchester on Monday. “I still think City are one of the best teams in Europe. City have the best coach [Pep Guardiola] in this competition. It’s one of the most difficult games you can have 
 And the same goes for us, we’re competitive, despite the emergency we face.”

    In 2022, Real Madrid triumphed over Manchester City with a 6-5 aggregate victory in the Champions League semifinals. During the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid staged a thrilling comeback, scoring all three of their goals in added time to win 3-1.

    When the two teams faced off again in the 2024 quarterfinals, it took a dramatic penalty shootout to decide the match. Madrid ultimately emerged as Champions League winners in both instances, while Manchester City claimed the title in 2023 after knocking out Madrid.

    “It’s the most difficult rival, the most important rival, and the best manager,” Ancelotti said. “The team that goes through to the next round has the possibility to go far in the competition. In the last years, the team that won this tie, won the Champions League.”
    Ancelotti said facing Guardiola’s City is “always a headache.”

    “He’s a coach who always tries to bring something new to his team,” Ancelotti said. “He’s done a lot for football in terms of possession, pressing, playing out from the back. He’s an innovator. I have a lot of respect for him 
 It’s always a nightmare preparing for the game.”

    In 2022, forward Rodrygo starred when the two teams met, scoring twice in a minute to see Madrid progress.

    “I was talking two or three days to [midfielder] Fede Valverde, about the game against City,” Rodrygo said.

    “I asked him if we’d ever feel that emotion again. It was the most special night of my career 
 Sometimes I’ve been happy playing against [City], other times not so much. I’m in good form and I can be decisive. But I try to be decisive in every game, not just against City.”

  • Sevilla chief accuses Real Madrid of attempt to destroy Spanish football amid ref protests

    Sevilla chief accuses Real Madrid of attempt to destroy Spanish football amid ref protests

    Sevilla president JosĂ© MarĂ­a del Nido Carrasco hit out at Real Madrid on Sunday, accusing them of “trying to destroy Spanish football” with their complaints over refereeing decisions.

    Madrid filed a formal complaint over the referee’s handling of their 1-0 LaLiga defeat at Espanyol on Feb. 1, asking the Spanish football federation to release audio recordings of conversations between the on-field referee and VAR around two key incidents, including the decision not to send off defender Carlos Romero — who later scored the winner — for a foul on Kylian MbappĂ©.

    Madrid’s open letter called Spain’s refereeing system “totally discredited,” saying decisions against them represented “manipulation and adulteration of the competition,” in language which was rejected by their fellow clubs in a meeting with LaLiga and the federation on Thursday.

    “We have to differentiate two things: being able to modify the refereeing system and some aspects of refereeing, and Real Madrid’s statement,” Del Nido Carrasco said, speaking to broadcaster DAZN ahead of Sevilla’s 4-1 defeat to Barcelona on Sunday.

    “It’s intolerable and unacceptable. It brings into question the honour of referees and the competition. The world of football should denounce, publicly and in the courts, a statement which goes against football’s integrity.”

    Real Madrid have regularly voiced their dissatisfaction with refereeing decisions via their club TV channel. In the latest instance, during Saturday’s derby against AtlĂ©tico Madrid at the BernabĂ©u, the visitors were awarded a first-half penalty following a VAR review of AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni’s challenge on Samuel Lino.

    “The worst of all is that Real Madrid are trying to destroy Spanish football, with Real Madrid TV, and in various other ways,” Del Nido Carrasco said. “We can’t tolerate that a club like Real Madrid try to destroy us … First of all, we give our unconditional support to referees. We won’t tolerate that their honour is being questioned. [Madrid] want to put pressure on them, so that they don’t make decisions freely.”

    Madrid’s 1-1 draw with AtlĂ©tico, coupled with Barcelona’s win, means that just two points separate the three teams at the top of the LaLiga table, with Madrid top, AtlĂ©tico second, and Barça third.

  • Let MbappĂ© do things his own way – Cristiano Ronaldo advises Real Madrid

    Let MbappĂ© do things his own way – Cristiano Ronaldo advises Real Madrid

    Cristiano Ronaldo has urged Real Madrid to “take care” of Kylian MbappĂ© and emphasized that the young forward should “chart his own path” as he strives to establish himself as a legend at the BernabĂ©u.

    Mbappé has already netted 22 goals in his first season with Madrid, despite facing early criticism for his form.

    Ronaldo, the club’s all-time top scorer with 451 goals, revealed that MbappĂ© had always looked up to him as a child. The two had a memorable moment when they took a photo together after MbappĂ©’s trial at the club as a teenager.

    “Look after the lad,” Ronaldo urged, in an extract from an interview with Spanish TV show El Chiringuito, due to be broadcast in full on Monday. “The fans need to look after him. He’s very good. The club have to help to protect him, I have no doubt he’ll bring a lot of joy to Madrid fans.

    Cristiano Ronaldo was Kylian MbappĂ©’s childhood hero growing up

    “I love [MbappĂ©], not just because of his story as a kid, how he loved Cristiano, I was his idol,” Ronaldo said. “I think he’s a top player.”

    Ronaldo revealed he now tunes in to watch Real Madrid’s games because his son, Mateo, is a fan of MbappĂ©.

    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he feels MbappĂ© still needs some help in adjusting to his role in the Real Madrid team.

    “It’s complicated, because he doesn’t know how to play as a forward in my opinion — or rather, it’s not that he doesn’t know, but it isn’t his position,” Ronaldo said. “If I was at Madrid, I’d show him how to play as a number nine.

    “I wasn’t a forward. I got used to it, but I was a winger. People forget that. I was a forward, but not a typical forward. I think [MbappĂ©] shouldn’t be a typical forward, he should do things his way.”

    Mbappé has already won two trophies with Madrid, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and scored as Madrid were humbled 5-2 by Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa last month.

    Madrid now face a testing few weeks, playing Leganés in a Copa del Rey quarterfinal before a Madrid Derby with Atlético Madrid on Saturday and then facing Manchester City in their Champions League knockout stage playoff.

  • Video: Vini Jr,Rudiger and Camavinga hang out with Burna Boy in Paris

    Video: Vini Jr,Rudiger and Camavinga hang out with Burna Boy in Paris

    Some Real Madrid players were seen having dinner with Nigerian Afrobeat star Burna Boy in Paris, France.

    A video spotted on X, shows Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouaméni, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga enjoying a meal with Burna Boy after they attended a fashion event in the city.

    During the dinner, Burna Boy gave Rudiger his diamond chain, and Vinicius gifted the musician two signed Real Madrid jerseys.

    The players were taking a break after their 3-0 win against Real Valladolid on Saturday, January 25, 2024.

    Burna Boy is known worldwide for his music and accomplishments. He also performed at the 2023 UEFA Champions League final.

  • Real Madrid breaks records with over €1 billion in revenue – Deloitte

    Real Madrid breaks records with over €1 billion in revenue – Deloitte

    Real Madrid is the first football club to earn more than €1 billion ($1.04 billion) in a year, according to a report by Deloitte on Thursday.

    The report, which looks at the 2023-24 season, shows that the Spanish and European champions made €1.045 billion in revenue, putting them at the top of the list.

    Manchester City is in second place with €838 million, followed by Paris Saint-Germain with €806 million, Manchester United with €771 million, and Bayern Munich with €765 million.

    English Premier League clubs dominate the top 10, with Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea also making the list.

    The 20 clubs included in the study collectively received €11.2 billion, which is up 6% on 2022-23, Deloitte said.

    In the 2023-24 season, Real Madrid achieved major successes, winning the Champions League after defeating Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley and securing La Liga with a 10-point lead over second-place Barcelona.

    Their total revenue of €1 billion came from €248 million in matchday income, €316 million from broadcasting rights, and €482 million in commercial earnings.

    The ongoing improvements to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium contributed to a significant increase in matchday revenue, which doubled compared to the previous year.

    Madrid’s €248 million from matchdays is the highest of any club, with Paris Saint-Germain coming in second at €170 million.

    Their commercial revenue also grew by 19%, surpassing all other clubs.

    Deloitte reported that the revenue gap between the top two clubs, Real Madrid and Manchester City, is now a record €208 million, making it the largest difference ever seen in the study.

  • Ancelotti to reportedly part ways with Real Madrid at the end of the season

    Ancelotti to reportedly part ways with Real Madrid at the end of the season

    Renowned Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly decided to leave Real Madrid at the end of the 2024/25 season, despite having a contract that runs until June 2026.

    According to Spanish radio station Onda Cero, which shared the news on Monday, January 20, 2025, Ancelotti’s decision appears to be final and is not influenced by the team’s performance or potential trophies this season.

    Despite his planned departure, Ancelotti continues to have the full support of the club’s management, who have stood by him through recent challenges.

    With his exit on the horizon, Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner to replace him.

    Alonso, currently under contract with Leverkusen until June 2026, is seen as the top candidate for the Real Madrid job.

    Ancelotti will depart as the most successful coach in the club’s history, having secured an impressive 15 trophies over his two tenures.

    Between his first stint from 2013 to 2015 and his return in 2021, Ancelotti has guided Real Madrid to remarkable achievements, including three UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, two Copa del Rey titles, two Spanish Supercopas, three UEFA Super Cups, two FIFA Club World Cups, and an Intercontinental Cup.

  • Mbappe no longer with transgender girlfriend; he said he is single

    Mbappe no longer with transgender girlfriend; he said he is single

    Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has reportedly ended his rumored relationship with transgender model Ines Rau.

    Speculation about their romance began in 2022 when the pair were seen together on several occasions, though neither publicly acknowledged the relationship.

    In a recent interview with Mouloud Achour on Clique, Mbappe appeared to address the rumors, revealing that he is currently single. The French footballer expressed optimism about finding love again in the future.

    “Yes, in the past, I have already been in love, and I hope that I will be again. But currently, no,” Mbappe said.

    His comments fueled rumours about a split from Rau, a transgender model and Playboy cover star.

    According to reports, Mbappe ended the relationship with Rau after facing several fan attacks.

    The footballer was subjected to homophobic abuse during the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, with Argentina fans taunting him.

    “They f* transvestites like f*ing Mbappe,” a remark quoted by International Business Times (IBT).

    Adding to the speculation, the couple have unfollowed each other on Instagram.

  • Ancelotti reveals Mbappe is “down like everyone else”

    Ancelotti reveals Mbappe is “down like everyone else”

    Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that Kylian Mbappe is “down like everyone else” at Real Madrid, but the striker remains motivated to overcome his current struggles.

    Mbappe, who joined Real on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in July, has faced a challenging start to his career at the Bernabeu. Despite scoring eight goals in 15 appearances, the 25-year-old has only found the back of the net once in his last five games.

    The team, which claimed both the Champions League and La Liga titles last season, has been in a tough period, including a heavy 4-0 defeat to rivals Barcelona last month. They currently trail the Catalans by nine points in the league standings.

    “Mbappe is down like everyone else, but motivated to get through this moment,” Ancelotti said in a press conference. “The problem he’s having is everyone’s problem. You could point at Vinicius [Junior], Rodrygo or [Jude] Bellingham. It is a difficult moment for everyone.”

    The Real Madrid manager also assured that Mbappe is “training well” and remains “convinced” that his form will improve as long as he maintains a positive mindset. “We haven’t hit our stride yet. You can’t let your head drop, you have to hold it high,” Ancelotti added.

    Regarding Mbappe’s exclusion from France’s upcoming Nations League double-header by national team coach Didier Deschamps, Ancelotti stated that he had not discussed the matter with the player, emphasizing that it was a decision for the French coach to make.

    “It’s a matter for the national team coach and I have no right to judge his decisions. He made the decision and we have to accept it,” Ancelotti explained.

  • Real Madrid’s match at Valencia postponed due to flooding

    Real Madrid’s match at Valencia postponed due to flooding

    Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga match against Valencia, originally slated for Saturday, has been postponed following severe flash floods across parts of Spain.

    The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced that all games in the Valencia region would be suspended after torrential rains led to at least 95 fatalities and left many others unaccounted for.

    In addition to Real Madrid’s match, Villarreal’s game against Rayo Vallecano and three Segunda division matches—Castellon vs. RC Ferrol, CD Eldense vs. SD Huesca, and Malaga vs.

    Levante—have also been postponed.

    In the women’s top flight, Liga F, fixtures such as Valencia’s match against Deportivo La Coruna and Real Madrid’s clash with Levante have also been suspended.

    The RFEF acted on requests from La Liga, Liga F, and the clubs themselves to call off all professional matches in the affected areas after the devastating flooding.

    The ongoing Copa del Rey tournament was similarly affected, with Valencia’s away game against Parla Escuela among the rescheduled matches.

    The RFEF said a minute’s silence will be observed during the weekend’s games to show Spanish football’s “solidarity for those affected, especially the relatives of those who have died in the natural disaster.”

  • Real Madrid reportedly accuses UEFA of influencing Vinicius Junior’s 2024 Ballon d’Or snub

    Real Madrid reportedly accuses UEFA of influencing Vinicius Junior’s 2024 Ballon d’Or snub

    Drama unfolded at the 2024 Ballon d’Or gala as Rodri was awarded the coveted trophy over Vinicius Junior, sparking surprise among fans.

    Real Madrid reportedly believed Vinicius was a strong favourite, supported by a significant fan base and prominent figures within football.

    According to Madrid Universal, the club suspects UEFA’s influence played a role in the decision, potentially due to ongoing tensions with Real Madrid stemming from their support of the European Super League.

    For the first time since 1956, UEFA collaborated with France Football on the Ballon d’Or, a fact that has heightened Real Madrid’s suspicions about UEFA’s role in swaying the results in Rodri’s favour.

    Additionally, Real Madrid contends that the criteria used to select Rodri could have instead recognised Dani Carvajal, further emphasising the club’s dissatisfaction.

    As a result of these perceived injustices, Real Madrid opted to boycott the ceremony, expressing their belief that their club was undervalued in the proceedings.

    In a related report by TUKO.co.ke, despite the prestige of the Ballon d’Or award, it was revealed that there is no financial prize associated with winning this trophy.

  • Barca thrash Madrid by 4 goals to nil

    Barca thrash Madrid by 4 goals to nil

    Barcelona delivered a dominant performance at the Santiago Bernabeu, thrashing Real Madrid 4-0 to extend their lead at the top of LaLiga by six points.

    Robert Lewandowski scored twice, with additional goals from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, ensuring a night to forget for the hosts in the Spanish capital.

    Kylian Mbappe, making his El Clasico debut, had a frustrating evening as two of his goals were disallowed for offside. Despite creating chances, Real Madrid failed to capitalize, with both Jude Bellingham and Mbappe missing key opportunities to change the game.

    Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 54th minute, finishing off a brilliant pass from Marc Casado, and netted a second just three minutes later with a powerful header.

    His involvement continued as Yamal converted his first El Clasico goal in the 77th minute, firing a shot past Andriy Lunin. Raphinha capped off the night in the 84th minute, chipping the ball over Lunin to seal the victory.

    Mbappe struggled against Barcelona’s well-organized defense and was repeatedly caught offside, unable to find a breakthrough against goalkeeper Inaki Pena. For Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, it was a night to remember, as his team claimed a comprehensive victory in his first El Clasico, securing a six-point cushion over second-placed Madrid after 11 rounds of the season.

  • Video: See highlights of Real Madrid’s impressive 5-2 win in Borussia Dortmund clash

    Video: See highlights of Real Madrid’s impressive 5-2 win in Borussia Dortmund clash

    Vinicius Junior achieved a remarkable hat-trick as Real Madrid staged a spectacular comeback to defeat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 after being down 2-0 at halftime.

    Dortmund initially took control of the match with goals from Donyell Malen and Jamie Gittens, giving them a solid lead by the break. This matchup was a repeat of last year’s final, where Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline.

    The Spanish champions began their revival in the second half, with Antonio Rudiger scoring a powerful header in the 60th minute to reduce the deficit. Just two minutes later, Vinicius equalised.

    Captain Lucas Vazquez then put Real Madrid ahead 3-2 with a fierce finish from a narrow angle in the 83rd minute. Vinicius capped off his outstanding performance by netting two additional goals late in the match, both coming after dazzling individual runs that left Dortmund’s defense struggling.

    Vinicius inspires Real to win

    Dortmund seemed poised to end Real Madrid’s impressive 14-match unbeaten streak at home in the Champions League when they led at halftime.

    Even at 2-2, Dortmund’s captain, Julian Brandt, had a chance to regain the lead, but his close-range shot was expertly saved by Real keeper Thibaut Courtois. Less than a minute later, Lucas Vazquez scored, putting Real Madrid ahead.

    In the first half, Real Madrid struggled to mount an effective attack, with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham failing to connect, despite Bellingham hitting the crossbar while the team was down 2-0.

    However, after the break, fuelled by the inspiring performance of Vinicius—who is favoured to win next Monday’s Ballon d’Or—the home team looked nearly unstoppable.

    Vinicius’s second goal was particularly noteworthy; he picked up the ball in his own half, sprinted down the left flank, and fired a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

    Carlo Ancelotti’s team now holds a record of two wins and one loss from their three league phase matches, matching Dortmund’s performance. Meanwhile, Jamie Gittens made history by becoming the youngest Englishman to score against Real Madrid at just 20 years and 75 days old, surpassing Alan Smith’s previous record of 20 years and 129 days set while he was with Leeds in March 2001.

  • Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois battling abductor injury

    Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois battling abductor injury

    Real Madrid’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, aged 32, has been diagnosed with an injury affecting the abductor muscle in his left leg, the club announced on Monday.

    Although Courtois played the entire match during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid, he is now anticipated to miss Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against Lille and Saturday’s league encounter with Villarreal.

    The Belgian goalkeeper, who recently stated he would not participate in international matches under coach Domenico Tedesco, has been a consistent presence for Real this season, starting in all ten games.

    This follows a significant period out of play last season due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.

    Courtois made his return to the squad in May, contributing to the team’s Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund, but he was not included in Belgium’s lineup for EURO 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rec0lH5psQg
  • AtlĂ©tico Madrid permanently ban fan over Courtois projectiles in derby

    Atlético Madrid permanently ban fan over Courtois projectiles in derby

    Atlético Madrid has issued a permanent ban to one of its fans following the incident of objects being thrown onto the pitch during the Madrid Derby, the club announced on Monday.

    The match, which ended in a 1-1 tie against Real Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium, was interrupted midway through the second half after Real took the lead with a goal from Éder Militão.

    During this period, various items, including lighters and plastic bottles, were directed at Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

    Referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer paused the game for an initial ten minutes, leading to an overall delay of approximately twenty minutes, as spectators were warned to stop their disruptive behaviour or face the match being abandoned entirely.

    After the conclusion of the game, AtlĂ©tico’s coach Diego Simeone and team captain Koke expressed their criticism of Courtois, suggesting that his celebration following MilitĂŁo’s goal played a role in inciting the crowd.

    On Monday, AtlĂ©tico said that “the club has made the decision to permanently expel the person identified yesterday by the police, in collaboration with our security department, involved in the throwing of objects during the derby.”

    “Our security department continues to work with the police to identify the rest of those involved in the throwing of objects, who will be permanently expelled as soon as they are identified,” the club said.

    While the match was on hold, coach Diego Simeone, along with Koke and Atlético defender José María Giménez, approached the fans situated behind the goal. Among the crowd, at least two individuals were spotted wearing balaclavas.

    On Monday, the club said it would “imminently incorporate into its internal regulations the prohibition of using any element or garment in order to hide one’s identity.”

  • Ex-France and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane retirement at 31

    Ex-France and Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane retirement at 31

    France’s World Cup-winning defender Raphael Varane has officially retired from football at the age of 31, following a severe knee injury.

    Varane, who earned 93 caps for France between 2013 and 2022, was instrumental in their 2018 World Cup triumph in Russia and their runner-up finish in Qatar four years later.

    Varane began his professional journey with Ligue 1 side Lens before making a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2011.

    During his decade-long stint with the Spanish giants, he played 360 games and collected an impressive haul of trophies, including three La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns.

    In 2021, Varane signed with Manchester United, where he made 95 appearances, helping the club win the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.

    In July, he transferred to Serie A club Como, but his debut was cut short by the knee injury that ultimately led to his decision to hang up his boots.

    “I have fallen and risen a thousand times, and this time, it’s the moment to stop and hang my boots up with my final game winning a trophy at Wembley,” Varane wrote in a post on Instagram, referencing United’s FA Cup win in May.

    “I have no regrets, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have won more than I could have even dreamed of, but beyond the accolades and trophies, I am proud that no matter what, I have stuck to my principles of being sincere and have tried to leave everywhere better than I found it.”

    Varane added that he would remain at Como in a non-playing role.

    “A new life begins off the pitch. I will remain with Como. Just without using my boots and shin pads. Something I am looking forward to sharing more about soon,” Varane said.

    In April, Raphael Varane revealed that the concussions he sustained over the course of his career had “taken a toll on his body” and emphasized the need for greater awareness among players about the risks associated with heading the ball.

    The French defender disclosed that he had suffered a concussion just days before France’s 1-0 loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals, as well as during Real Madrid’s 2020 Champions League last-16 second-leg defeat to Manchester City.

  • MbappĂ© to be out for 3 weeks over thigh injury – Source

    MbappĂ© to be out for 3 weeks over thigh injury – Source

    Kylian MbappĂ© is set to be sidelined for three weeks due to a thigh injury, according to a source who spoke to ESPN. This means the star forward will miss Real Madrid’s upcoming derby against AtlĂ©tico Madrid this weekend.

    MbappĂ© was taken off in the 80th minute during Madrid’s 3-2 La Liga victory over AlavĂ©s at the BernabĂ©u, after previously scoring twice to give his team a 2-0 lead.

    He signalled discomfort in his left leg, prompting his substitution.

    Following the match, coach Carlo Ancelotti referred to the issue as a “knock,” explaining that MbappĂ© had requested to be taken off to prevent further complications.

    However, on Wednesday, Madrid confirmed the extent of the French international’s injury.

    “Following the tests carried out today on our player Kylian MbappĂ© by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the femoral biceps of his left leg,” the club said.

    According to a source speaking to ESPN, Kylian MbappĂ© is expected to be sidelined for three weeks due to injury, ruling him out of key fixtures including a Champions League clash against Lille, a La Liga showdown with Villarreal, and France’s upcoming international break.

    As Real Madrid gear up for their derby against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday, they sit second in La Liga with 17 points from seven matches, just behind leaders Barcelona.

    Atlético, with 12 points from six matches, will face Celta Vigo on Thursday before the highly anticipated derby.

    MbappĂ©’s performances have been steadily improving this season, having netted five goals in La Liga, with his most impressive strike coming in a match against AlavĂ©s.

  • La Liga president reprimanded after Real Madrid’s appeal in the CVC case

    La Liga president reprimanded after Real Madrid’s appeal in the CVC case

    LaLiga president Javier Tebas has received an official reprimand from Spain’s Administrative Sports Court (TAD) following a complaint filed by Real Madrid.

    The TAD initiated proceedings in July after Madrid accused Tebas of overstepping his authority and lacking transparency during the August 2021 assembly, where LaLiga clubs discussed the controversial CVC investment deal concerning TV rights.

    Though Tebas escaped suspension, LaLiga expressed strong disagreement with the court’s decision and announced plans to challenge the ruling through an appeal, according to a statement released on Friday.

    The statement said: “TAD has ruled on a complaint from Real Madrid CF for having called the General Assembly of 12/08/2021 with eight days’ notice, instead of the required 10 days, using the urgent procedure, without expressly indicating the reasons for the urgency in the call.

    “From LALIGA’s point of view, there is no violation in the conduct of President Javier Tebas Medrano.

    Furthermore, the convening of the General Assembly complied with all statutory requirements.”

    LaLiga clubs voted in December 2021 in favour of a €2 billion ($2.2 billion) investment deal with private equity firm CVC Capital Partners, despite the opposition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Athletic Club.

  • Players wouldn’t have a problem cutting pay for flexible fixtures – Ancelotti

    Players wouldn’t have a problem cutting pay for flexible fixtures – Ancelotti

    Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said he believes players would be willing to take a pay cut if it meant playing fewer games during the season.

    Top internationals competing in the expanded Champions League and the revamped Club World Cup could end up playing as many as 85 games this season, which has led some players to complain about the new schedule overload.

    “Football needs to reflect because the aim is to try to play less games to have less injuries,” Ancelotti said in Friday’s news conference.

    “If that leads to lowering salaries, the aim is for players to play less games, so I don’t think the players will have any problem to lower their wages if they play less.”

    Manchester City midfielder Rodri recently cautioned that players are nearing the point of strike action due to growing concerns about their heavy match schedules.

    His sentiments were echoed by several others, including Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois and Dani Carvajal, who have voiced similar frustrations.

    However, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti noted that any strike threats from the players would not alter the current season’s fixture calendar.

    “The complaints of coaches and players is not going to change this season’s calendar,” Ancelotti said.

    “It’s important to reflect on this and the players more so because they are getting tired. We have to analyse this. The players are thinking about changes in the future.”

    Ancelotti also spoke about his team’s form ahead of their game against Espanyol.

    Los Blancos go into Saturday’s LaLiga game on the back of a hard-fought 3-1 home win over Stuttgart in their Champions League opener on Tuesday.

    “Against Stuttgart we showed some great plays,” Ancelotti said. “I think we play beautiful football. I see that our fans are loving how we are playing.

    “Can we play better? Yes, sometimes. With our players, with our characteristics, we have to win and play well.

    “We have to think about winning and hope not to have injuries. I hope to see the team improving, keep getting that good dynamic back.”

    Real Madrid currently sit third in La Liga, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points after five matches.

    While the team has areas to work on, manager Carlo Ancelotti understands that progress will require patience.

  • The focus is to win and not necessarily play well – Real Madrid’s Ancelotti

    The focus is to win and not necessarily play well – Real Madrid’s Ancelotti

    On Friday, Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti, 65, dismissed concerns about the team’s less appealing playing style, asserting that securing victories takes precedence over aesthetics.

    With an unbeaten record of five wins in seven matches this season, Ancelotti remains focused on strategies for success, even as he navigates injuries to key players and others who are still working to regain their best form.

    “Real Madrid fans prefer winning over playing well,” he said ahead of Sunday’s LaLiga clash at home to mid-table Espanyol.

    “Ideally you want both, winning while playing an attractive style of football, but our main objective is pleasing our fans, who are very demanding, so we will keep our focus on winning as we know that our squad is still far away from ideal form.

    “We are not at our best, and that is normal in the beginning of a demanding calendar. We will improve as the season starts to get into the important things to play for. For the moment we are in, we are doing well.”

    Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni returned from injury in Real Madrid’s tough 3-1 win over Stuttgart, kicking off their defence of the Champions League title on Tuesday.

    Despite this positive development, manager Carlo Ancelotti indicated that David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Ceballos, and Brahim Diaz will need several more weeks to fully recover.

    Ancelotti remains optimistic about forwards Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe, pointing out that while they are still in the process of developing, both players have been making steady progress and are ready to inject the team with the energy needed for a more dynamic attacking approach.

    “The criticism doesn’t bother me because I see that the fans are delighted,” Ancelotti said.

    “You can play better, but the fans are used to our ‘rock and roll’ football. Not a lot of touches. We try to make the Madrid fans happy. And our game is about intensity, pace… Without wasting too much time in reaching the opponent’s goal.

    “These are our characteristics. We have players with a lot of strength and speed, especially on the ball, and we have to take advantage of that.

    “For me, I believe that beautiful football depends on the characteristics of the players I have: attacking well, defending well
 playing well on the counter. There are many facets and everyone has their own opinion.”

    Barcelona top the LaLiga standings with 15 points, four ahead of Atletico Madrid, Real and Villarreal.

  • Real Madrid’s Courtois supports Rodri’s decision to take strike action

    Real Madrid’s Courtois supports Rodri’s decision to take strike action

    Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has backed Rodri’s warning that players could be close to taking strike action over the number of games they’re being asked to play.

    Speaking in a news conference on Tuesday, the Manchester City midfielder said a players’ strike was “close” over football’s hectic fixture list, saying: “I think it’s the general opinion of the players
 If it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option.”

    Both Madrid and City are competing in UEFA’s revamped Champions League this season, and are also set to feature in FIFA’s new Club World Cup in the United States next summer, which could see both teams play a total of over 70 games this campaign.

    “Rodri is right,” Courtois said on Wednesday, in a conversation with popular Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos. “There are a lot of games. A fan wants to see the best, and we have to find a balance, there are too many games, and there are more injuries.

    “With the Nations League, the Club World Cup, games are added. People say we earn a lot of money, that we can’t complain, and that’s true, but we have to find a balance, because the best [players] aren’t always going to be able to play.”

    Real Madrid kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Stuttgart on Tuesday.

    However, in LaLiga, the reigning Spanish champions have struggled to find their best form and are already trailing leaders Barcelona by four points.

    Amid this, speculation has grown around the future of forward Rodrygo following the arrival of Kylian MbappĂ©. Despite the rumors, the Brazilian played a key role in the match, assisting MbappĂ©’s first Champions League goal for the club.

    Meanwhile, Madrid’s media has coined the nickname “BMV” to describe the club’s attack, referring to the trio of Jude Bellingham, Kylian MbappĂ©, and VinĂ­cius Jr., notably leaving out Rodrygo from the moniker.

    “Journalists want to put three letters, and they put Jude, Vini and MbappĂ©,” Courtois said. “In the dressing room we know the importance and quality of Rodrygo.

    He doesn’t have to get angry, but if he plays better, let him get angry.”

  • Demanding calendar to be blamed for Real Madrid’s injury woes – Carlo Ancelotti

    Demanding calendar to be blamed for Real Madrid’s injury woes – Carlo Ancelotti

    Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has attributed the team’s injury struggles this season to a congested match schedule, with forward Brahim DĂ­az becoming the latest casualty.

    DĂ­az was forced to leave the field during Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga on Saturday after sustaining an abductor injury in his right leg.

    While initial reports suggested that DĂ­az could be sidelined for up to three months, ESPN sources now indicate the forward may recover sooner, with a revised timeline estimating his return in just over two months.

    According to ESPN, Brahim DĂ­az is expected to be out for more than two months due to his injury.

    Initially, the club feared a three-month recovery period, but sources close to the player are hopeful he might return sooner.

    At a press conference on Monday, ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Stuttgart, manager Carlo Ancelotti pointed to the packed fixture schedule as a key factor behind the team’s spate of injuries early in the season.

    In addition to Díaz, midfielders Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Dani Ceballos have also been sidelined recently.

    However, Ancelotti confirmed that both Bellingham and TchouamĂ©ni would be fit for Tuesday’s game.

    “We’ve looked at what we can do, but it’s out of our hands,” Ancelotti said. “The problem is a calendar that’s too demanding. Now we have a new competition [the Champions League].

    We don’t know how it will go, if it will be more entertaining, but the one fact is that we have two extra games.

    “I call for people to think about cutting the number of games, to have more attractive competitions.”

    During Real Madrid’s victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday, Brahim Diaz had to leave the field due to an injury.

    Ancelotti confirmed that defender Éder MilitĂŁo, who missed Monday’s training session, had simply been rested and is expected to be available for their match against Stuttgart.

    The coach also addressed criticism of VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, who faced backlash for his goal celebration after converting a penalty. VinĂ­cius gestured to silence the crowd at the Reale Arena, a move that has sparked some controversy.

    Ancelotti defended the forward’s actions.

  • Rodrygo expresses disappointment over Ballon d’Or snub

    Rodrygo expresses disappointment over Ballon d’Or snub

    Rodrygo expressed his frustration about being left off the men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, despite his key contributions to Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs last season.

    Several of his teammates, including VinĂ­cius JĂșnior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Toni Kroos, Antonio RĂŒdiger, Dani Carvajal, and new signing Kylian MbappĂ©, were named on the prestigious 30-man list, but Rodrygo was notably absent.

    “I was upset; I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN in an exclusive interview on Sunday. “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise.

    But there’s not much I can do; I’m not the one who decides these things.”

    The Ballon d’Or winner is set to be revealed during a ceremony in Paris on October 28. Last season, Rodrygo netted 10 goals in 34 LaLiga appearances and added five goals in the Champions League for Real Madrid.

    Despite competition from the arrival of Kylian MbappĂ©, Rodrygo has remained in Carlo Ancelotti’s starting lineup as part of a three-man attack.

    Recently, Rodrygo took to social media, sharing photos of himself holding trophies with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji. He later admitted the post was meant to poke fun at his omission from the Ballon d’Or shortlist.

    “I made a somewhat mocking post,” Rodrygo said. “Now there’s not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages.”

    Rodrygo admitted that his versatility has inhibited his progress, especially with Brazil, who play Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

    The forward scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 victory over Ecuador this weekend.

    “Often, I’m just filling spaces,” Rodrygo said. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as No. 9? Rodrygo. That’s it. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”

    Rodrygo was asked about Madrid and Brazil teenager Endrick, who has been given the ironic nickname “Bobby” by teammates after citing England legend Bobby Charlton as one of his idols.

    “Now he has become Bobby!” Rodrygo told ESPN. “He is no longer Endrick. He’s become Bobby, that’s it. There’s nothing to be done, if he gets angry, it’s worse!”