Real Madrid News
Eden Hazard confident about returning to his ‘Chelsea level’ – report
Eden Hazard’s move to Real Madrid from Chelsea has not worked out as intended at all.
Los Blancos shelled out a sum of over €100 million to secure the Belgian wing-wizard from the Premier League giants in 2019. At the top of his game in the season before his move, Hazard has struggled to hit that level in Spain.
Fitness problems and relentless injuries have hampered the former LOSC Lille starlet. As a result, Hazard has made just 65 appearances for Real Madrid despite being at the club for almost three years.
With just six goals during this period, it would be safe to say that the forward has been a major disappointment. The 31-year-old is out on the sidelines now as well, having not been involved since February 19.
Hazard underwent surgery in late March to have an osteosynthesis plate removed from his ankle that had been causing him pain and infections. Having undergone the procedure, the former Chelsea superstar is currently on his rehabilitation plan.
And SPORT reports that Hazard is in the final stretch of his recovery and could be ready to rejoin the team in training by the end of this month. However, he might have to wait until May 11 to return to action when Real Madrid face Levante in La Liga.
The report further adds that despite his ordeals, Hazard is confident that he can hit the heights of his Chelsea days for the Spanish capital club and bounce back strongly before the season ends.
Real Madrid have plenty of games remaining in the season with them being involved in the UEFA Champions League. So, if they progress in the tournament, Ancelotti would likely decide to rotate for the La Liga matches, considering that they are close to winning the title.
So, Hazard could get some regular game-time in the backend of the season and he can stand to get a proper run-out and make a solid impression. By doing so, the Belgian could save his career at the Santiago Bernabeu, given as he still has two years on his contract.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
