Real Madrid News
Bayern Munich legend explains why Real Madrid are dangerous again: ‘Everything is pushing you down’
Oliver Kahn has delivered a strong warning ahead of the upcoming Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, drawing from his own experiences of playing at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Having faced Real Madrid multiple times during his career, the former Bayern goalkeeper knows exactly what makes the Spanish giants so difficult to handle, particularly on their home turf.
Reflecting on the physical and mental challenge of playing in Madrid, Kahn admitted,
“Ninety minutes at the Bernabeu are more gruelling than anywhere else,” he began, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
More to the story
He then expanded on the atmosphere that sets the Bernabeu apart, especially when compared to other major venues.
“The atmosphere in Madrid is much more intense than in Barcelona: you feel as though everything is pushing you down.
“The atmosphere can be intimidating. And now, with the roof, that’s even more noticeable.”
It must be noted that back in 2000, Khan was part of the Bayern Munich side that became the first German team to win at the Bernabeu.
Over the course of his career, he recorded seven victories against Real Madrid, along with one draw and four defeats.
Turning his attention to the present, Kahn pointed out why Real Madrid remain such a dangerous force despite recent challenges.
“Real Madrid are coming off a period in which they have had to overcome criticism, instability, and a change of manager.
“And suddenly they secure a victory against Manchester City and realise, ‘we can turn the season around’. That is precisely what makes Real Madrid so dangerous,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
