Real Madrid News
Federico Valverde jokes that he would ‘give his wife’ for the Champions League
Emotions are running high as the Champions League final nears. Just over 24 hours remain for the kickoff as both sides prepare to face off in the world’s biggest football game this season.
Speaking to Diario AS ahead of the game in Paris, Federico Valverde jokes about the extent to which he would go in order to lift the prestigious trophy tomorrow night.
“What would I give to win this Champions League? Not my son but maybe my wife yes (laughs),” he said.
Liverpool is the final hurdle that lies in front of Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they prepare to lift their first UCL in over three years. However, Jurgen Klopp’s men will be raring to end their season with silverware, too, especially after losing the league title to Manchester City.
Los Blancos pulled off back to back to back comebacks in the Champions League this season to secure a place in the final.
Federico Valverde is not expected to start in midfield the night, given that Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric are all available. However, the Uruguayan could have a crucial role to play in the attacking trident.
The youngster started 19 La Liga games for his side this season, providing one assist and creating three big chances. Defensively, he provided two tackles and an interception every game.
From a pure mentality standpoint, Real Madrid head into the game as favourites. However, it would be unfair to write off Liverpool for they have been consistent with their performances throughout the season.
Real Madrid News
U-turn? Benzema hints at Real Madrid stay during ceremony: “Reality is not the internet”
There has been a lot of talk around Karim Benzema’s situation over the course of the last week or so, with reports claiming that the Frenchman was on his way out of the Santiago Bernabeu.
With his contract expiring at the end of the season, it was reported that Benzema was joining Al Ittihad as part of an incredible deal worth nearly €200 million. The striker was also offered 100% of his image rights and advertising deals by the Saudi government.
Over the last day or so, it has been reported that the move is all but official at the moment, as Benzema has accepted the offer, and will soon inform Real Madrid about it.
Benzema was awarded the MARCA Leyenda awards for contribution to sports today, and speaking during it, he dropped a rather cryptic message about his future – one that says quite the opposite to what has been in the news recently.
“Speak to the fans? Speak about what? Why should I speak of the future if I’m in Madrid?”, Benzema said.
“It’s the internet speaking, and reality is not the internet,” he added.
This certainly falls away from the departure line for Benzema, who was reportedly already contemplating his life away from Madrid.
At first, though, he was hesitant about speaking about his future, saying, “Staying or leaving Real Madrid? At the moment, I’m here…we have a game on Saturday.”
He repeatedly talked about the fans, calling them the best in world football. He also said, “I know how much Real Madrid fans love me. I feel that when I’m on the pitch, I give my best for them, always.”
“I always say that we play with 11 on the pitch but also with a crucial factor, Real Madrid fans,” Benzema concluded.
