Real Madrid News
Ancelotti identifies 31-year-old flop as Benzema’s backup for next season
Eden Hazard’s transfer to Real Madrid has been nothing short of disastrous. The Belgian international was one of the best in his position at the time of his move but failed to have any impact on his new club.
His involvement in the team has been minimal over the past few seasons. However, it is said that Hazard has returned to training in better physical condition this season, and Ancelotti is looking to capitalise on his services.
According to reports from El Chiringuito, Ancelotti trusts Hazard to recover his best form. Further, he has decided that the former Chelsea player will be Karim Benzema’s substitute for the upcoming season.
The world got to see this plan in action in Real Madrid’s first preseason game over Barcelona. With their French striker unavailable, Hazard started as the centre-forward on the night.
The Belgian did not have a great outing in the Vegas Clasico as he was constantly shut down by the Blaugrana defence.
Nevertheless, Los Blancos are also in the market to sign a new young striker. If Hazard fails to grab his opportunity, Real Madrid will unquestionably be in the market looking for a new striker.
Clearly, the 31-year-old is unhappy with his situation in Madrid. He made a promise to Los Blancos faithful at the end of last season, vowing to return to his best form.
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.
Walter Jisa
August 9, 2022 at 11:59 pm
Very unfortunate Hazard really. Let’s hope you are now compact.Wish you the best.