Real Madrid News
Real Sociedad star names Barcelona as stronger side but expects Real Madrid to improve: ‘Mourinho could turn everything around’
Real Sociedad winger Ander Barrenetxea has given his verdict on the La Liga title race ahead of his side’s trip to the Santiago Bernabeu, naming Barcelona as the stronger team while refusing to rule out a major response from Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid.
Speaking to AS before Real Sociedad face Real Madrid in their first home game of the 2026/27 season, Barrenetxea was asked to compare the two Spanish giants after another summer of significant investment.
Barrenetxea sees Barcelona ahead of Real Madrid
When asked about his preference between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Barrenetxea acknowledged that Mourinho could change the situation, although he preferred to name the Blaugrana.
“I see Barcelona as the stronger side, but now Madrid with Mourinho could turn everything around, so I don’t know – but at a pinch, Barcelona.”
Barrenetxea’s assessment comes after another summer in which Spain’s biggest clubs have strengthened their squads, increasing the level of competition at the top of La Liga.
The Real Sociedad winger welcomed the arrival of top players, believing matches against the best teams provide footballers with the clearest measure of their own level.
“Well, I like that. I like the fact that Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atlético have the best players, because ultimately that’s where you get a sense of your own level when you play against them.
“You see where you really stand, they put you in your place a bit, and I like that.
“I think we’ve all dreamt since we were little of playing against the best: against Messi, Cristiano.
“And I think those players are coming to LaLiga again now, so I’m happy. Rodri joining Barça too – it’s mad.”
Barrenetxea on facing Real Madrid
Barrenetxea was also asked when opponents have the best chance of facing Real Madrid over the course of a season, to which he said,
“Never. It’s best never to face them. But yes, I do think that at the start is when they are in the worst physical shape and when I reckon you can do them the most damage.”
The match also represents an opportunity for Barrenetxea to continue his personal record against Los Blancos.
The winger admitted that Real Madrid are the team he has scored against most often during his career.
“That’s right. Yes, I’m good at it. In fact, I think they’re the team I’ve scored the most goals against.”
He also explained why finding the net at the Santiago Bernabeu carries an extra sense of satisfaction.
“Well, against teams like this, you enjoy scoring even more. I suppose that’s true for everyone, and for me too, of course.”
Lastly, when asked whether he expected any banter from Mourinho, the winger dismissed the possibility and emphasised his respect.
“No, no. Impossible – I have a lot of respect for him,” he concluded.
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.
