Real Madrid News
Barcelona legend wary about Real Madrid ahead of cup final – ‘They never give up’
Victor Valdes has recently made a new step in his coaching career, having been appointed as the head coach of Spanish fourth-tier outfit Real Avila.
Speaking at his first press conference since joining Avila, Valdes talked about the upcoming Copa Del Rey final between Real Madrid and his former club, FC Barcelona.
Despite all the hype around Barcelona heading into the final, Valdes notably refused to tag the Catalans the favourites as he believes Real Madrid can never be counted out.
What Valdes said ahead of Copa Del Rey final
When asked about the final and whether or not he considers Barça as the favourites, Valdes stated (h/t AS):
“In a final against Real Madrid, you can never talk about favourites. Real Madrid are a great team with big stars.”
The former Barcelona goalkeeper, who has over 500 competitive appearances for the club, went on to praise Real Madrid’s composure and resolve, especially in tough matches.
“Real Madrid never give up and are never dead, especially in a final. They are very dangerous,” he added.
That said, Valdes did take a moment to applaud Barcelona and the way they have played this season under the leadership of Hansi Flick.
“Barcelona have attacking power that hasn’t been seen in years or decades,” he said. “The coach has given them a new style, a new way of playing, of understanding and managing a group.”
During his time at Barcelona, Valdes has won countless accolades including three Champions League titles. He also won the Copa Del Rey twice.
The former goalkeeper is now fully venturing into coaching, starting with his new assignment at Real Avila.
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.
